A man has tragically died after being swept into the ocean while rock fishing at a notoriously dangerous headland on the New South Wales Central Coast. The 41-year-old was fishing with two companions on Saturday afternoon at Snapper Point, located north of Frazer Park beach, when a large wave knocked him into the water.
Emergency Response
Emergency services were alerted to the Munmorah State Conservation Area around 1:20 PM, where they discovered the man's body floating face-up in the surf. Despite wearing a flotation device around his torso, he was not wearing a life jacket. Witnesses reported that he had been clinging to an Esky in an attempt to stay afloat, but police believe he let go after 10 to 15 minutes.
A paramedic from the Westpac Rescue Helicopter was winched down to retrieve the man's body from the water. Paramedics on board immediately commenced CPR, but unfortunately, they were unable to revive him.
Failed Rescue Attempt
One of the man's friends had entered the water earlier in an effort to rescue him but was unsuccessful. That friend was later picked up by a passing boat and taken to Swansea RSL Club, uninjured. Marine Area Command, Surf Life Saving NSW, and NSW Ambulance also participated in the rescue efforts.
Investigation Underway
Police have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident and will prepare a report for the coroner. The three-kilometre stretch of coastline where Snapper Point is located is notorious for its hazardous conditions. Surf Life Saving NSW described the area as having 'lots of rock crevasses and lots of caves.'
More than 20 people have died along this stretch of coastline since 2008, with several others either drowning or being rescued after waves swept them from the rocks at Snapper Point.
Community Reaction
Central Coast locals took to social media to express their condolences to the man's family while highlighting the dangerous nature of Snapper Point. One resident wrote, 'Over the last 50 years, so many people have drowned in that area around Snapper Point. Every time I see the Westpac helicopter heading towards there, you know that it is highly likely that there will be a tragic outcome.' Another added, 'That place has always been a very dangerous fishing spot.'
Recent Similar Incidents
This latest tragedy comes just weeks after two rock fishermen drowned at Little Beach in Bouddi National Park, also on the Central Coast, underscoring the persistent risks associated with rock fishing in the region.
