Melton woman drowns at Phillip Island beach

A 24-year-old woman who died at a popular Surf Beach in Phillip Island on Sunday was with her family when the tragedy unfolded.

Floral tributes have been left have Smiths Beach. Picture: Brooke Grebert-Craig

A 24-year-old woman who tragically died at a Phillip Island beach on Sunday was with 10 other family members at the time.

Emergency services were called to Smiths Beach around 6.40pm to reports of a woman struggling in the water.

Paramedics performed CPR on the Melton woman who was pulled from the water, but she could not be revived.

Sergeant Kevin Lister who is investigating the death for the coroner told The Bass Coast News the 24-year-old was at the beach with her family.

“There was a brother and another family member swimming and she followed them in 10 minutes later,” he said.

“No one saw her go into the water but they saw her face down and dragged her out and started CPR until the ambulance and police got there.”

Pro Surf Coaching instructor Ed Amorim lives a few houses up from Smiths Beach.

He said someone came rushing up to his house to grab a surfboard to try and help the woman.

“My housemate went down to help but the girl was already on the shore with the paramedics,” Mr Amorim said.

“Everyone is really sad down here today, we are thinking of her family.”

Mr Amorim said more signs should be put up around the beach, warning people of the rips and rocks.

“People from Life Saving Victoria should stay a bit later, it’s a busy time of the year,” he said.

“They leave the beach and people still swim.”

Life Saving Victoria’s General Manager Lifesaving Services Liam Krige said no patrolling members were involved in the incident.

“Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the woman involved and we urge all beachgoers to always swim between the red and yellow flags at patrolled beaches during patrol hours,” Mr Krige said.

“If we can see you, we can save you.”

Mr Krige said all beaches and waterways can be dangerous.

“Always swim with a friend and refresh water safety skills including personal survival techniques, swimming skills, water safety knowledge.”

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