One man has died and two others have been rescued after a boat capsized in Camden Haven on the Mid North Coast.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Volunteers mounted a rapid response rescue effort after a boat overturned just after 1pm on Sunday December 3 while attempting to cross the bar.
Inflatable Rescue Boat crews from Camden Haven and Wauchope Bonny Hills were able to rescue two men, but another man, aged 59, was recovered deceased from underneath the boat.
Surf conditions were about 1.8m and the beach had been closed earlier in the day due to the conditions.
The lifesavers were assisted in the rescue effort by a Branch support JetSki and Duty Officer, Marine Rescue, Police and Ambulance.
All club members involved in the rescue have been debriefed and will be offered counselling.
Surf Life Saving NSW CEO Steven Pearce said he was saddened by the tragedy, particularly leading into Christmas and his thoughts go out to the man's family and friends and all those involved.
"Our members involved are obviously upset by the outcome, but they should be proud of their efforts and take comfort in the fact they responded as quickly as they could," he said.
"This is what Surf Life Saving is all about. Our volunteers give their time and often put their own lives on the line to save others."
The small team from Camden Haven are highly capable and experienced lifesavers, who were awarded the NSW Rescue of the Year and a national meritorious award after saving the life of a Sydney mother in huge seas in April.
Local police, together with the Marine Area Command, are investigating the incident.
A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.