A school community is mourning the loss of a beloved 17-year-old student, Ed Millear, who died after collapsing at rowing training in Melbourne.

The Melbourne Grammar student collapsed while training at the Simon Fraser Memorial Boat House beside the Yarra River in Melbourne CBD.

Paramedics were called to the scene about 4pm, where he was also given first aid by school staff, before he was taken to the Alfred Hospital. 

Melbourne Grammar confirmed in a statement that the 17-year-old died at 3am today.

“The school community is in mourning for this wonderful young man, taken too soon,” the school said in a statement.

Headmaster Philip Grutzner described Millear as a “hardworking and diligent” student, who aspired to a career in the commerce sector.

“It is acknowledged that he was a cheerful, friendly and easy-going person who demonstrated great care and empathy for his fellow students and for others through enthusiastic participation in service activities,” he said.

Grutzner said the student was a keen rugby player, and a “valued member” of the rowing crew.

“His family has had a long connection to the school, with his great great great grandfather graduating from Melbourne Grammar in 1884, and subsequent generations through to the current day in later years,” he said.

The school said the welfare of its students remained the highest priority, and said support would be provided to the family over the coming days and months to come.

“We recognise that each may respond to this tragic news in different ways. The school has a strong pastoral care program and we are drawing on all our expertise to ensure that each student is cared for and supported as they come to terms with the loss of their friend. 

Victoria Police said a report would be prepared for the coroner.