Loved Australian triathlete found dead in creek at age 19

A 19-year-old Australian triathlete’s body has been found partially submerged just weeks after competing in a race overseas.

Australian triathlete Audrey Griffin’s body has been found partially submerged in a New South Wales creek.

The much-loved 19-year-old’s body was found on March 23, just weeks after competing in the ANZCO Foods half Ironman event in Taupo, New Zealand.

NSW Police has confirmed Griffin, from the Central Coast area, was found in the Erina Creek between the Punt Bridge and Pateman Road in Green Point, near Gosford.

She was last seen at around 2am AEDT at the Gosford Hotel on Sunday morning. Her body was found at 5pm later that day after police had been contacted about her disappearance.

A NSW Police spokesperson has confirmed a crime scene was established after the body was found. She was reportedly found fully clothed.

“Following inquiries, police attended a creek along the Central Coast Highway, where they located the body of the woman in the water,” the spokesperson said.

“A crime scene was established and inquiries into the incident are underway by officers attached to Brisbane Water Police District.

The Terrigal/Wamberal community is reeling after the shock, unexplained death of Audrey Griffin, 19, whose body was found in Erina Creek on Sunday, March 23, 2025. Picture: supplied

The Terrigal/Wamberal community is reeling after the shock, unexplained death of Audrey Griffin, 19, whose body was found in Erina Creek on Sunday, March 23, 2025. Picture: LinkedIn

“A report will be prepared for the Coroner.”

As first reported by The Central Coast Express Advocate, police established another crime scene about 1km north towards Pateman Rd.

A make-shift memorial has been established at a sight near the creek and the line of police tape surrounding the crime scene.

The publication reports a preliminary autopsy has listed the cause of death as drowning.

The Central Coast Express Advocate on Sunday reported the family has been told the death is not being treated as suspicious.

Her death has still rocked the local community.

Griffin was a member of the Terrigal Surf Life Saving Club, Terrigal Sharks Rugby League Club and she was also a former vice-captain of Central Coast Sports College.

A floral tribute for Audrey Griffin, 19, whose body was found in Erina Creek on Sunday, March 23, 2025. Picture 4x3: supplied

It is triathlon that is reported to have been her favourite activity.

Seven News reported Griffin on March 1 finished the half ironman event with a time of 6:40:32, finishing 23rd in her age group classification.

Friends and loved-ones paid tribute to the popular teenager with messages on social media.

One person posted on Facebook: “A beautiful girl and treasured by a lot of people! Always had a smile on her face. We will miss you. Rest peacefully.”

One friend posted: “She touched the hearts of so many people and always had a smile,” a friend said on social media.

“Her laugh was contagious and her goofy self always made us laugh.

“I’m sure many of you have so many beautiful memories, photos and videos of her, I would love to eventually see them all.

“Audrey you are truly loved by so many people.”