Warning to beachgoers after horror drownings over Christmas, Boxing Day

A tragic spate of drowning incidents along Australia’s east coast has sparked a fresh warning to beachgoers over the holiday period.

A spate of horror drownings along Australia’s east coast has sparked fresh warnings from surf lifesavers, as thousands flock to the beach for the summer holidays.

One of the tragic fatalities was a man who died after being caught in a rip at popular South Bombo Beach, near Kiama, on Boxing Day.

He was pulled from the surf by members of the public but could not be revived.

Further south, a woman drowned just days earlier after she was pulled from the water along an unpatrolled section of Werri Beach at Gerringong.

That same day, a 50-year-old man died at Burleigh Heads at Queensland’s tourist mecca, the Gold Coast, after being found in the ocean sometime about midnight.

A fresh spate of drownings has sparked a fresh warning to beachgoers. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Morgan Sette

Royal Life Saving Australia had sounded the alarm about the increased number of drowning incidents, with 18 reported in the first three weeks of this summer compared to 12 in the previous year.

Lifesaving data shows 80 per cent of drowning victims are men and more than 80 per cent have been born overseas.

The current death toll is 20 per cent higher than the five-year average, according to Royal Life Saving Australia.

“With summer upon us, many families will be planning holidays and daytrips to the water, but we’re urging everyone to also consider their water safety plans as part of their preparation,” Royal Life Saving Chief Executive Officer Justin Scarr said.

“We know this is a critical time of year to focus on drowning prevention and water safety, with 41 per cent of all drowning deaths occurring during the summer months and the highest numbers recorded in December and January.

“Whether you’re planning a day at the river, or a beachside holiday, the choices you make before you leave can save lives.”

While beaches are often considered the site of many drowning-related incidents, about a quarter of drownings occur in the nation’s rivers and creeks.

Last summer, 134 people died between December 1, 2023 and February 29, 2024 from downing, which amounts to at least one person killed everyday over the summer.

Those most vulnerable include older adults aged 55 and over, who accounted for 39 per cent of last year’s drowning deaths, and people born overseas at 27 per cent.

No matter a persons age, Surf Life Saving Australia urged beachgoers to not over-estimate their swimming skills, to supervise children, and to avoid alcohol.