A 66 year old man has died at Woolgoolga Beach while surfing

Despite frantic attempts from emergency services and lifesavers, a man has lost his life at Woolgoolga beach.

A 66-year-old man has died at Woolgoolga beach following desperate attempts by police, ambulance and lifesavers.

Police were called to the beach after the man – believed to have been surfing –was found on the beach in an unresponsive state shortly after 1.30pm.

Sergeant Richard Garrals from Woolgoolga Police said while it is early in the investigation, the man appears to have been “ in difficulty while surfing”.

He said the rainy, windy conditions throughout the day may have played a part and urged swimmers adhere to current warnings.

North Coast Duty Officer for Surf Life Rescue Les Pepper said the man was dragged to the shore and attempts were made to save the man.

Frantic attempts were made by all involved to save the man at Woolgoolga Beach. Picture: Frank Woodward

“The surf club defibrillator was used until an ambulance arrived,” Mr Pepper said.

CPR was performed but the man could not be brought back to consciousness.

Believed to be a local to the Woolgoolga area, many will be mourning the tragic loss.

“It’s lucky we have a defibrillator, but unfortunately this wasn’t a good outcome,” Mr Pepper said.

Current warnings are to swim between the flags – but Mr Pepper also advises swimming at patrolled beaches Coffs Harbour and Sawtell at this time of year.