A man has died after being swept into the surf at Yamba, north of Coffs Harbour.
It’s understood the 24-year-old was swimming in shallow water at Pippi Beach with a friend around 2.30pm on Monday when he was swept out.
Police say the young man “signalled for help” before disappearing.
It sparked a desperate search involving Marine officers, Surf Life Saving NSW, the Westpac Rescue Helicopter from the Gold Coast, and NSW Ambulance paramedics.
“About 6pm, the man was spotted by the helicopter crew and retrieved by surf-lifesavers, however, he was unable to be revived and died at the scene,” NSW police said.
The man is believed to have been visiting the small town from Sydney with a friend.
The beach was not patrolled at the time.
A report will now be prepared for the information of the Coroner.
