Emergency services hunt for missing swimmer near Ballina

Emergency services are desperately searching for a missing swimmer who disappeared in the surf this morning.

EMERGENCY services are desperately searching for a missing swimmer who disappeared in Ballina this morning.

It was reported the man went missing in the water about 10.15am NSW time near Lighthouse Beach.

Officers from Richmond Police are on scene commencing the search in assistance with the Marine Area Command.

NSW SES, Surf Life Savers, Marine Rescue NSW and Westpac Surf Lifesaver Helicopter are also on scene.

At 1pm, the rescue helicopter had been flying for over 90 minutes before having to stop to refule at Ballina Airport.

Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopters from Sydney are said to join the search.

More to come.