The search for a missing surf lifesaver on Australia’s Sunshine Coast has turned tragic. Photo: @taylor77//Unsplash
A surf lifesaver who went missing before a training session at Buddina Beach in Queensland, Australia, has been found deceased. The 18-year-old, who has not been identified, went missing on Wednesday, March 4 at 4:15 p.m. and was found Friday at 6 p.m.
The circumstances around the incident are unclear, and the cause of death is pending a coroner’s report. The victim was entering the water alone when he went missing.
The rescue efforts included Jet Skis, dinghies, divers, a helicopter, and the coastguard, but challenging surf conditions made the search complicated.
“On behalf of Surf Life Saving Queensland, I extend our sincere and heartfelt condolences to this young man’s family and friends during this devastating time,” said Surf Life Saving Queensland chief operating officer Greg Cahill. “We are committed to ensuring welfare and peer support services are available to our members, volunteers and staff who have been impacted.”
A report released this week by Surf Life Saving Queensland, before the man went missing, revealed that there was an average of one drowning death every two days in Australia during last summer.
