Tragedy at Sea: Easter Weekend Turns Deadly Along Australia’s Coast

A somber start to the Easter weekend unfolded in Australia as powerful waves struck the eastern coastline, leading to the deaths of five individuals and leaving two others missing. The incidents occurred along the shores of New South Wales and Victoria, where rough surf conditions created deadly situations for beachgoers and fishermen alike.

On Saturday, a man’s body was discovered near Tathra in southern New South Wales, just a day after three other drowning deaths were confirmed across the state. Among them was a 58-year-old fisherman, highlighting how hazardous the waters have become even for experienced locals.

Tragedy also struck in Victoria, where a group of people was swept into the sea near San Remo. While one woman managed to return to shore, her companion drowned, and a man from the group remains unaccounted for. According to Victoria Police, rough surf conditions made survival impossible for those caught in the waves.

Search efforts are ongoing near Sydney for another man who was dragged into the ocean. Emergency services continue to comb the shoreline, hoping to find the missing individuals, though hopes are fading as hours pass.

Victoria Premier Jacinta Allan expressed her condolences, calling it an “awful start” to the holiday weekend. She added that the loss of life under such tragic conditions is heartbreaking and that more bad news may still be ahead for grieving families.

Eastern Australia’s coasts have been hit by unusually dangerous waves, creating hidden hazards in areas often visited by locals and tourists. Authorities have warned beachgoers to exercise extreme caution during the holiday period.

Adam Weir, the CEO of Surf Life Saving Australia, urged people to visit beaches with lifeguard patrols. Citing alarming statistics, he noted that over the past decade, 630 individuals have drowned at unpatrolled beaches. His message was clear: the ocean can be unpredictable, and taking extra precautions can save lives.

Weir emphasized a simple but powerful safety reminder: “Stop, Look, Stay Alive.” With dangerous surf conditions still present, officials hope the warning will resonate with beach visitors and help prevent further heartbreak this holiday weekend.