Despite an intense resuscitation effort and the prompt arrival of emergency responders, a man couldn’t be revived after being pulled unconscious from the water at Greenhills Beach in Southern Sydney on Wednesday.
It is believed the man aged in his 30s was swimming on the beach around 600 metres north of the flagged lifeguard area when he got into difficulty shortly after 9am.
Sutherland Shire Council Lifeguards were the first to arrive on scene and after the man was pulled out of the surf began administering CPR treatment.
After being alerted to the incident, the State Operations Centre tasked surf lifesaving assets including a Duty Officer and the President of Wanda Surf Club to offer their assistance.
Also attending were police, paramedics, and an ambulance helicopter.
Despite 40 minutes of attempted treatment the man was sadly unable to be revived.
Investigations into the incident are continuing, however it is understood that thought that the man has suffered a medical episode while in the water.
Today’s tragedy is the second coastal drowning in NSW over the last 48 hours after a 24-year-old man couldn’t be revived at Stanwell Park on Monday, and has prompted the lifesaving community to plead with people to swim between the flags
“The lifeguards and emergency services did an absolutely amazing job under very trying circumstances but sadly we were unable to have a positive outcome in this instance,” said SLSNSW CEO Steven Pearce.
“To have two drownings in as many days is very difficult for everyone in the lifesaving community, and our thoughts are with the family and friend of the young man.
“What these incidents have tragically reinforced is the power of the ocean and we would certainly urge anyone heading to the beach over the holidays and beyond to please swim between those red and yellow flags,” he said.
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.
Wednesday 3 October 2018