A tragic incident occurred over the Easter long weekend on the New South Wales mid-north coast, where a nine-year-old boy lost his life after becoming trapped between rocks at South West Rocks. This heartbreaking event was part of a spate of drowning deaths that plagued the region as powerful swells pounded beaches and drew hordes of holidaymakers to the coast.
Surf Life Saving NSW chief executive, Steven Pearce, described it as the worst Easter long weekend for drownings that they have seen. In addition to the young boy’s death, two men in NSW and Victoria remain missing after being swept off rocks by large waves, while a 58-year-old fisherman died in Wollongong harbor and another man drowned at Mosman.
Authorities have urged Australians to exercise caution while engaging in water-related activities, particularly during extreme weather conditions. Royal Life Saving Australia CEO, Justin Carr, emphasized the importance of being mindful near the water, such as avoiding rocky shelves, not getting too close to the water for photos, and refraining from rock fishing in unsafe conditions.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed his condolences for those who lost loved ones during this tragic weekend. The sad reality is that an average of six people have lost their lives to drowning each Easter long weekend over the past 20 years. As rescue crews continue their search efforts for the missing individuals, it serves as a somber reminder of the dangers that can arise in and around the water.
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