Maroochydore Beach death: Kuluin man, 43, dies after Cotton Tree tragedy

A man has died after a tragedy at a popular beach on the Sunshine Coast despite desperate efforts from onlookers, including an off-duty paramedic, to save his life.

A 43-year-old Kuluin man has died in a beach tragedy despite desperate efforts from bystanders to try and save his life.

The man was on a sandbank off Cotton Tree beach on Friday morning when the incident took place.

Lifeguards and paramedics were called to reports of a near-drowning but on-duty lifeguards said on Friday the man had suffered a suspected heart attack.

The man had reportedly been playing with his children or grandchildren about 11am Friday when the tragedy occurred.

Cotton Tree beaches along the Maroochy River mouth are a favourite with families. Picture: Lachie Millard

He was flown by rescue helicopter in a critical condition to the Sunshine Coast University Hospital but was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital.

Sunshine Coast Police district duty officer Senior Sergeant Steve Hall said the man’s death was not suspicious and a report was being prepared for the coroner.

The cause of the man’s death had not been determined yet.

Sunshine Coast Police district duty officer Senior Sergeant Steve Hall confirmed a report would be prepared for the coroner. Picture: Patrick Woods.

The man died despite the efforts on bystanders including an off-duty paramedic who was able to begin CPR.

Lifeguard supervisor Trent Robinson said on Friday the heroic off-duty paramedic had been performing CPR when lifeguards arrived to help.

Sunshine Coast Hospital and Health Service officials confirmed the matter was now in the hands of police and the coroner.