Broulee Beach is very popular at this time of year. Photo: Elise Searson.
Surf Life Saving NSW responded to multiple serious coastal incidents across the state on New Year’s Eve, including one confirmed fatality, an ongoing search and rescue operation, a resuscitation and several critical rescues.
All incidents involved the collaborative multi-agency efforts from lifeguards, Surf Life Saving Support Operations, the Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter, police, ambulance and RFS.
Dangerous surf conditions in NSW saw 70 of 185 patrolled beaches closed across the state.
At North Palm Beach, a suspected vessel capsize at about 11:35 am resulted in the death of one person, while another was airlifted to hospital and the search continues for a 14-year-old boy.
Surf Life Saving Sydney Northern Beaches president Rod McGibbon said it was a tragic way to end the year.
“For this to happen on any day, but especially New Year’s Eve, is a tragedy; at least one person is not returning home this evening,” he said.
“Lifeguards and the Surf Life Saving Support Operations were able to respond to this incident quickly and will continue to assist with the search and rescue operation currently underway.”
On the South Coast, two children (six and seven-years-old) were rescued from the water in Wollongong. One of the children required resuscitation and both were taken to hospital. They got into trouble while swimming at the remote Bulgo Beach in the Royal National Park and were helped from the water by members of the public before lifeguards and the Westpac Rescue Helicopter arrived.
Further south, a man was rescued by the Kiama Lifeguard jetski at the Kiama Blowhole after being swept out to sea. He sustained minor injuries and was taken to hospital in a stable condition.
At North Broulee, a family of four (a father and three children) were rescued from the water by a group of surfers before lifeguards and the Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter arrived to support and assess the patients.
As the new year begins, Surf Life Saving NSW is reminding everyone to enjoy the holiday period safely.
“Our message to the public is, please don’t take unnecessary risks, know your limits in the conditions. We want everyone to return home safely. Please always swim at a patrolled location, between the red and yellow flags, because if we can’t see you, we can’t save you,” said Steve Pearce, CEO, Surf Life Saving NSW.
