A 15-year-old boy is missing and feared drowned after he was reportedly swept off rocks at North Avoca Beach on New South Wales' Central Coast. Emergency services were alerted to the situation around 3 p.m. on Christmas Eve, activating a multi-agency search operation involving air and sea units.
According to reports, the teenager was among friends when he was taken by waves, prompting immediate action from the authorities. The surf environment at North Avoca Beach can be treacherous, especially during holiday periods, which was emphasized by Surf Life Saving NSW CEO, Steve Pearce.
"We want everyone to return to their families, and to do this we plead with you to please think before you take risks," Pearce stated. This warning came as the search unfolded and was backed by statistics indicating 17 coastal drownings have occurred since July 1, illustrating the dangers posed by the ocean.
Two helicopters were deployed to assist with the search, circling the area to locate the missing boy. Meanwhile, on the water, police and surf lifesaving crews utilized boats, jetskis, and drones to expand their search area. Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Steve Raymond noted how "conditions offshore are choppy with 2.5-metre to 3-metre swell," complicing the rescue efforts.
The collaborative operation also involved volunteers from Marine Rescue, who were tasked with assisting water police. Inspector Raymond explained, "Terrigal 30 rendezvoused with NSW Water Police vessel off The Skillion and is now conducting search patterns under the direction of NSW Police Marine Area Command." This coordinated effort aims to cover as much area as possible under difficult conditions.
Despite the challenges, the search continued until nightfall, with plans to resume at dawn if the boy remained unfound. An official spokesperson mentioned, "Search will continue until darkness; if nothing is found, the search will resume tomorrow, with Water Police assets remaining until 10 p.m." Sunset was projected around 8:05 p.m., making it necessary to halt operations as visibility decreased.
Onlookers and residents expressed their concerns for the family of the missing boy during this trying time. The community is banding together, hoping for the best but also acknowledging the sobering risks of being near the ocean, especially during vacation times when many families are enjoying the festivities.
Surf Life Saving officials have made it clear how important it is to heed safety warnings. "We're already seeing major incidents through which are devastating for many families at this time of year," Pearce added, stressing the need for increased caution.
The detailed search operations reflect the urgency and heartache of such incidents. Families flock to beaches during summer, but the inherent dangers of surf conditions cannot be overlooked.
While the search efforts are commendable, they serve as painful reminders of how quickly leisure can turn to tragedy. Officials hope this incident will encourage beachgoers to adopt safer practices and remain vigilant near the water.
With hopes remaining high for the missing teenager's safe return, the search and rescue teams persist, determined to scour every possible area. The community watches and waits with bated breath, hoping for news.