Search ends for two paddleboarders feared drowned at Nambucca Heads

Strong winds and a large swell hampered efforts in the desperate search for two paddleboarders off the coast at Nambucca Heads. Here’s the latest as the search ends.

Strong winds and a large swell hampered efforts in the desperate search for two paddleboarders believed to be missing one kilometre offshore on Monday afternoon.

Emergency services were called to Wellington Drive, Nambucca Heads, about 6.30pm after witnesses reported seeing two men in trouble.

Witnesses said the two were wearing a red shirt and a yellow shirt, and last seen approximately one kilometre offshore, between Nambucca Heads and Scotts Head.

One bystander said she saw the man in the yellow shirt disappear under the water and not resurface while the other man was swept further out to sea.

A land and water-based search began with the water-based search suspended at 10pm, due to dangerous surf conditions.

Marine Rescue NSW volunteers search at Nambucca Heads for two paddleboarders reported missing.

The search resumed early on Tuesday morning but by midmorning conditions deteriorated once again.

Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Steve Raymond said crews were stood down at 10.15am.

“Conditions were challenging for our volunteer crews with 25 knot winds combined with a one and a half metre swell,” Mr Raymond said.

Around 1.30pm on Tuesday NSW Police issued a statement saying the search was over.

“Earlier today police spoke with two men matching the description of the missing persons at Nambucca Heads.

“The pair confirmed with police that they had been in the water at that time before returning home safely. Police wish to thank the media and community for their assistance.”