A spate of fatal drownings over the Easter long weekend has already taken eleven lives in New South Wales alone. If so, this incident would be one of the most tragic and extensive records for this holiday period. Among the victims, a nine-year-old boy who drowned at a beach on Sunday. Rescue teams successfully resuscitated a 14-year-old boy. Such incidents during the holiday season have once again sounded the alarm on water safety while celebrating!
A nine-year-old boy recently drowned after becoming pinned down by rocks. This tragic accident happened at South West Rocks, a fishing and tourist coastal community located some 400 km north of Sydney. Emergency services were called and soon airlifted the young boy, but he unfortunately died at the scene. This tragic story is a reminder of the hazards that can exist when families visit the beach for a day.
In another story, a helicopter rescued a father and son who were treading water. It took place on location near Wattamolla Beach, which is located south of Sydney. The father was unfortunately pronounced dead later, but the 14-year-old son was successfully resuscitated. The devastating losses have left communities mourning during a holiday that should be filled with joy.
Steven Pearce, the Chief Executive of Surf Life Saving New South Wales was shocked by the incident. He described the weekend as “horrendous on a weekend that’s supposed to be joyous and religious.” The recent series of tragedies has sparked national outcry for more attention, education, and warnings to beach visitors.
Additionally, police in Victoria continue to confront the burden of demonstrating the horrific actions of this tragic weekend. They are looking for a 41-year-old man missing near San Remo since Friday. His disappearance, unfortunately, is not an isolated case as two other people continue to be unaccounted for after such water related incidents.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has encouraged families to be more vigilant over the summer months.
“Please, everyone, be careful. Families in particular, be careful of your kids.” – Anthony Albanese
The traditional long Easter weekend has always been a time of renewal, appreciation and celebration. This year, hundreds of families across New South Wales and Victoria are in grief. As officials further investigate these tragedies, they are reiterating the need for water safety 🧵.
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