Six people have died after drowning in powerful waves along Australia’s east coast.
A fisherman fell into the sea after strong waves swept him from a rocky outcrop in New South Wales. Rescuers managed to pull him from the water, but they could not revive him.
Cyclone Tam caused the large waves that began impacting the coastline on Friday. Five people drowned in New South Wales, and one person is still missing. Another fatality occurred in Victoria, according to local reports.
The Bureau of Meteorology warned people about large waves along the New South Wales and southern Queensland coasts from Thursday to Saturday. They expected conditions to improve by Sunday, but some areas in New South Wales may still experience strong winds until midnight on Monday.
Rescue efforts and warnings issued
The Bureau of Meteorology posted a warning on X (formerly Twitter), saying that conditions could prove dangerous for activities like swimming, boating, and rock fishing.
Local police, the Marine Area Command, and volunteer groups like Surf Life Saving NSW led rescue efforts. They recovered the bodies of those who drowned and saved others caught in the waves.
Rescuers pulled several people, including a 14-year-old boy, from the water. Police reported that the individuals received treatment in hospital. Steven Pearce, Chief Executive of Surf Life Saving NSW, said rescuers had made over 150 rescues since Good Friday.
Easter holiday contributed to crowds at coast
“This may be the worst Easter drowning toll in New South Wales,” Mr Pearce told ABC News.
He explained that hot temperatures, the long Easter weekend, and large swells drew many people to the coast, which contributed to the incidents.
Police are urging witnesses to come forward with information about the drownings.
NSW Police issued a reminder: “Large surf conditions remain dangerous for activities such as rock fishing and boating.” They advised the public to wear lifejackets, carry safety equipment, and check the weather before heading out. “If in doubt, don’t go,” they warned.
