‘Sad morning for Barwon Heads’: Woman tells of gut-wrenching scene following fishing tragedy

A horrified walker has recalled seeing heroic rescuers “dragging something in” following a fatal boating accident at Barwon Heads, as new details emerge about the devastating tragedy.

Coastwatch and other emergency services were involved in a search and rescue operation off Ocean Grove and Barwon Heads on Saturday morning, where a man drowned. Picture: Kelly Fry.

A horrified walker has recalled seeing heroic rescuers “dragging something in” following a fatal boating accident on the Bellarine Peninsula, as new details emerge about the devastating tragedy.

Ocean Grove resident, Kelly Fry, said it had been “a sad morning for Barwon Heads” after the death of an Anglesea man, 66, on Saturday morning.

His small boat capsized after being struck by a large wave, trapping him underneath.

Coastwatch and other emergency services were involved in a search and rescue operation off Ocean Grove and Barwon Heads. Picture: Kelly Fry

His companion, a 61 year-old Moriac man, was rushed to Geelong hospital and is recovering in a stable condition.

Ms Fry, 57, had been enjoying her regular morning walk when she noticed “all these jet skis dragging something in” near the river mouth.

“I’m a local and I walk every day,” she said.

“It’s sad that a man has lost his life.”

She spoke of her horror to see the man’s lifeless body in full view of the public at the popular tourist spot after she crossed the Barwon Heads bridge.

Police near the body of a person next to the At the Heads in Barwon Heads following a boating accident. Picture: Alan Barber

“It’s very sad to see a dead person on the beach,” she said.

“I think they should have taped off the bridge and also near the restaurant. It was terrible.

“There are lots of people there that can see a man has lost his life on the beach covered up.”

A police investigation has been launched into the tragedy.

Senior Constable Kevin Hoare said the pair faced “three to four metre” swell when they launched their boat from Barwon Heads.

Senior Constable Kevin Hoare talks to media at Ocean Grove Dunes complex following a fatal boating accident earlier in the day. Picture: Alan Barber

It can also be revealed other fishermen opted “not to go out” due to the dangerous conditions.

“It’s an absolute tragedy,” he said.

“Both men were wearing life jackets but in this case it didn’t save the deceased male.”

The surviving male was saved by a group of touring jet ski riders, who battled the large swell to reach the upturned boat about 200 metres off shore.

At the Heads restaurant in Barwon Heads was closed following a boating accident on Saturday morning, with police tape surrounding it. Picture: Alan Barber

It’s believed he was found sitting on top of the boat.

Senior Constable Hoare said the good Samaritans “were in good spirits” despite the traumatic experience.

“They were a little bit shaken up,” he said.

“They were more than happy to go out and assist in the rescue process.”

A report is being prepared for the coroner.

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Originally published as ‘Sad morning for Barwon Heads’: Woman tells of gut-wrenching scene following fishing tragedy