Australia’s eastern coastline is grappling with perilous conditions as the start of the Easter holiday brought overwhelming waves which have tragically led to the drowning of five individuals. The distressing incidents took place over a span of just a few days, raising alarms for local authorities and beachgoers alike.
The weekend began horrifically with the discovery of a man’s body near Tathra, a coastal town in southern New South Wales. This unfortunate finding came a day after a series of tragic events that resulted in the drowning of a 58-year-old fisherman and two other men in separate incidents within the same state.
Rescue operations are currently underway for a man reported missing after being swept into the water near Sydney. Similarly, in the seaside suburb of San Remo in Victoria, a woman drowned while another man remains unaccounted for after their group was overtaken by the unforgiving sea. Fortunately, one woman managed to return to shore and alert authorities.
Victoria’s Premier, Jacinta Allan, expressed her condolences on social media, calling the situation an "awful start" to Easter weekend and adding that there may be more heartbreaking news on the horizon regarding the missing individuals.
Adam Weir, the head of Surf Life Saving Australia, urged holidaymakers to exercise caution and remain at patrolled beaches, noting the alarming statistic that 630 individuals have drowned at unpatrolled beaches over the past decade. Weir emphasized that dangers can often be hidden, advising the public to "Stop, Look, Stay Alive" when venturing out into coastal waters. The ongoing search and rescue operations continue as communities mourn the loss of lives in these tragic circumstances.
