Victorian woman drowns in Gold Coast tragedy

Tributes are flowing for a Melbourne woman and her friend, who both drowned after going for a late-night swim on the Gold Coast.

A Melbourne woman died with a friend after going for a late-night swim in treacherous surf on the Gold Coast.

Tributes are flowing for Julia Boiko, 29, and Jake Jacobs, 32, following the double drowning tragedy.

Ms Boiko was found unconscious on Kurrawa Beach on Thursday night, but frantic efforts by paramedics to revive her were in vain.

A big search for Mr Jacobs came to an end on Friday afternoon when his body was found on Main Beach, several kilometres to the north.

His clothing and car were earlier found abandoned.

The pair are believed to have gone swimming about 9.20pm in 2m waves whipped up by the downgraded former Cyclone Lucas.

Julia Boika and Jake Jacobs.

Earlier on Friday, as hopes of a miracle rescue faded, police grimly conceded the search for Mr Jacobs was now a “recovery mission”.

“We don’t expect to find anyone alive,” Acting Inspector John Diggle said.

Two police officers were rushed to hospital with multiple injuries after being thrown from a boat in big swells during Friday’s search.

Mr Jacobs was a British national who emigrated to the Gold Coast from London in 2018.

He was manager of the MyFitness Club at Broadbeach, where Ms Boiko was also a member.

The gym’s founder, Rick Brennan, said staff and members were shattered.

“It’s just horrendous — I’ve spoken to a number of staff today who are in total disbelief,” he said.

Emergency workers on the beach after a body was found at Main Beach. Picture: Channel 9

“Jake had been our manager for the past couple of years and he was incredible.

“He was a beacon of shining light for members and staff and the club‘s not going to be the same without him.

“The club has been rocked by this terrible event, but now we are all hoping that the fact he has been found can give some closure to his family back in the UK.”

Only 12 days ago, Mr Jacobs took to Facebook to post photos of him and Ukrainian-born Ms Boiko on an idyllic visit to the Gold Coast hinterland.

“Beautiful day strolling through the forest, admiring the beauty of nature,” Mr Jacobs posted.

“Sitting mesmerised by the power and peacefulness of the falls.

“Sitting at the top of ­waterfalls, overlooking the forest, watching the sunset through the valley.

“Thank you hermit, who came out. For being bold enough, when you’re shy. Thank you for the laughter, with your child quality to your expressions.”