A search has been underway for a man missing after being swept off rocks before dawn while fishing at Currarong, south of Nowra Culburra.

SLSNSW Duty Officers, the Westpac Rescue Helicopter, Police, Marine Rescue and lifesavers from Nowra-Culburra SLSC have been assisting in the search.

This follows the tragic drowning of a five-year-old boy at Dolls Point near the Georges River Sailing Club in Botany Bay on Sunday and the drowning of a 23 year old Thai man at Maroubra Beach at 1:30am on Sunday morning.

Surf Life Saving NSW Lifesaving Manager, Andy Kent, says these three serious incidents are a tragic reminder of the inherent dangers of our coastline.

“Our hearts go out to all the families and friends affected by these incidents. We need people to start making smart safety decisions about where and when to swim or fish and to please stop taking unnecessary risks on NSW beaches.

“By simply swimming at a beach where some of our 21,000 highly trained lifesavers and lifeguards have set up flagged areas ensures that you are in the safest possible environment at the beach.”

Lifesavers across the state performed 63 rescues over the weekend while the Surf Life Saving Emergency Response System was tasked to another 15 jobs across the state by police.

Surf Life Saving NSW Summer Surf Safety Tips:

Always swim between the red and yellow flags

Read and observe the safety signs

Ask a lifesaver/lifeguard for safety advice

Always wear a lifejacket while boating or rock-fishing

Learn how to identify a rip

If you need help, stay calm and attract attention

If witnessing an in-water emergency call Triple Zero-Police

For up to the minute beach safety information please visit Beachsafe or download the app.