Human remains found during search for Indian student Hemant Govekar at Phillip Island

THE family of an Indian student who went missing during a Christmas swim at Phillip Island are hopeful he’s still alive despite the discovery of human remains in the area yesterday.

Woolamai Beach is regarded as a challenging surf beach. File image

THE family of an Indian student who went missing during a Christmas swim at Phillip Island are hopeful he’s still alive despite the discovery of human remains in the area on Boxing Day.

In a Facebook post from Hemant Govekar’s account just before 7am this morning, his family said he remains a missing person.

“Police have just reported him as missing. We have not heard any more from them,” it read.

“Kindly do not post condolence messages as yet — it’s hard on the family.

“We will provide any official updates we receive. Thanks for your understanding.”

A Victoria Police spokeswoman said the remains will undergo forensic testing to determine identity.

OCEAN DYE HIGHLIGHTS DEADLY RIP

Emergency services continued a major search of the waters off Woolamai Beach yesterday for any trace of the 28-year-old.

Mr Govekar was last seen in trouble by surfers at the beach at 5.30pm on Monday.

They tried to rescue him but he went under before they could drag him from the dangerous surf zone.

The beach was not patrolled at the time because it was Christmas Day.

His social media activity shows Mr Govekar has travelled widely during his time in Australia.

He was reported to have recently graduated from The University of Queensland.

WOMAN DIES AFTER RIP NIGHTMARE

SWIMMER’S DEATH SPARKS LIFESAVER PLEA

Woolamai is regarded as a challenging surf beach — churning rips combine with powerful waves to make it a difficult proposition for the inexperienced.

Life Saving Victoria has pleaded for beachgoers to swim between the red and yellow flags over the summer and say extra lifeguards will be on patrol through to New Years.

Lifesavers patrol 57 locations on weekends over summer and during the peak period lifeguards are employed to patrol on weekdays and at additional locations.