Fisherman’s narrow escape from Ocean Grove rip

The partner of a fisherman who had a narrow escape from a Barwon Heads rip has thanked those who rushed to save him.

Police on a beach near Barwon Heads after a water incident. Photo: Supplied.

The partner of a fisherman who had a narrow escape after becoming stuck in a rip off Ocean Grove has thanked those who rushed to save his life.

Chris Diamandis was in his kayak in the water when his anchor got caught and began dragging the vessel.

When he went to pull it in, he lost his balance and fell in, only to swept out by the current.

Witnesses saw the fisherman in the water and called emergency services.

Police and ambulance crews rushed to the beach at Barwon Heads arriving about 4pm.

Ambulances at Barwon Heads during the incident.

Mr Diamandis’ partner, Kyla Reeves, was at home while the incident was unfolding.

She said she felt overwhelmed as police knocked on her door.

Despite the difficult conditions, Mr Diamandis managed to swim back to the beach, where he was helped ashore by a pair of dog-walkers.

Ms Reeves said she was extremely grateful for all the help he’d received from bystanders.

“If we can get the word out to thank them, it’d be amazing,” she said.

Kyla Reeves and Chris Diamandis. Picture: supplied.

“I’m just overwhelmed with emotion, everyone coming out just to help was amazing,”

“I’m unbelievably thankful … it’s beautiful.”

Mr Diamandis was taken to Geelong hospital for monitoring but Ms Reeves said he was going to be OK.

“He’s got a bit of the shakes going, but he’s OK,” she said.
“I had to be his hot water bottle so I was hugging him the whole time.”

One witness said that Mr Diamandis was “very lucky”.

Originally published as Fisherman’s narrow escape from Ocean Grove rip