Despite the best efforts of emergency responders two people were unable to be revived in separate incidents at Kiama and Boomerang Beach on Monday.
Shortly before 12:30pm a group of people got into difficulty while scuba diving near the notorious Kiama Blowhole.
Council Lifeguards and Paramedics raced to the site while an ambulance helicopter was also tasked to attend.
A Surf Life Saving NSW drone conducting surveillance at nearby Kiama Beach was able to divert to the scene and provide aerial support throughout the emergency.
Utilising jet skis, lifeguards were able to assist the group back onto the rock platform.
Sadly one member, a man in his 30s, was unconscious and despite being winched from the scene and taken directly to hospital he was unable to be revived.
The quick response was crucial in avoiding further tragedy.
Meanwhile less than an hour later at Boomerang Beach on the state’s Lower North Coast an elderly swimmer was unable to be revived after becoming distressed in the water.
It appears that he suffered a sudden medical episode.
The man thought to be in his 70s was pulled unconscious from the water by Lifeguards from the Australian Lifeguard Service and members of the public.
CPR treatment was immediately commenced by the attending Lifeguards and despite their best efforts as well as a valiant attempt from Paramedics the man couldn’t be revived.
ALS Supervisor Warren Keegan praised the effort of the young Lifeguards.
“It was a very rapid response by the team who along with the members of the public and paramedics did everything within their power to provide care to the individual.
“Lifeguards from Pacific Palms also assisted with the operation which underscores the teamwork and togetherness of the ALS,” he said.
After a spate of incidents in the area, MidCoast Council commenced patrols at Boomerang Beach last season.
The popular swimming destination remains patrolled by Lifeguards until the end of the school holiday period.
Today’s double tragedy is the 13th in NSW coastal waters this summer and the 23rd in the 2018/19 season.
Beach Safety Tips
- Always swim between the red and yellow patrol flags, for your nearest patrolled beach check the BeachSafe app or website
- Read the safety signs for information about the beach and ask a lifesaver or lifeguard for safety information
- Always swim with someone else so you can look out for each other, and always supervise children around the water
- Never swim under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- If you need help in the water, stay calm and attract attention by raising one arm
- In an emergency, dial Triple Zero Police
- Don’t forget to be sun safe by remembering to: Slip on some protective clothing, Slop on some sunscreen, Slap on a hat, Slide on a pair of sunglasses, Seek some shade and Sip on lots of water to stay hydrated
- For information about patrol times, weather, and beach locations visit the Beachsafe Website or Download the App.