Police urge caution after three swimmers nearly die at Byron Bay

Tweed-Byron police are warning swimmers to take extra care after a spate of near drownings that has left three people in critical condition in hospital.

TWEED-BYRON Police have urged swimmers to take more care after three people nearly died at the iconic tourist hotspot of Byron Bay.

Chief Inspector Matthew Kehoe said in the past week two women and a man had got into trouble while swimming in the surf.

The swimmers were rescued by Surf Lifesaving NSW and the Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter Service, with the help of bystanders and police officers.

However, they were critically injured.

The Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter arrives at Clarkes Beach following one of the incidents. Picture: Craig Parry

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Insp Kehoe said a 69-year-old woman from Rose Bay and a 66-year-old man from Victoria were in a critical condition at Gold Coast University Hospital.

Meanwhile, a 41-year-old woman from Lismore was in a critical condition at Tweed Heads Hospital.

Insp Kehoe said “our thoughts are with these three families at this terrible time”.

Emergency services attend to a man who was pulled out of the water unconscious at Clarkes Beach, Byron Bay. Picture: Christian Morrow.

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He said the near drownings were a timely reminder for swimmers to be careful while in the water and to make sure they swim within their capabilities.

“Don’t take unnecessary risks in the water. Take note of the swell and be aware of rips and beach conditions,” Insp Kehoe said.

“Where possible people need to swim between the flags.”

The Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter prepares to winch a patient who was pulled from the ocean unconscious at Clarkes Beach. Picture: Christian Morrow.

Insp Kehoe suggested “safety in numbers” may prevent further incidents in the water.

“We encourage everyone to enjoy the beach and the lifestyle it offers, but we want everyone entering the water to return to the beach safely,” he said.

Swimmers should obey all safety signs at beaches and ask a lifeguard for more information about any safety issues, including rips.

Do not swim under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Swimmers who find themselves in trouble should stay calm and attract attention by raising an arm.