A search has resumed after a boating tragedy off northern New South Wales left three people dead, with others still missing from the incident.
Incident Details
Emergency services were called to waters off the Ballina breakwall about 6pm on Monday, following reports that a yacht had run into the breakwall amid dangerous conditions. A Marine Rescue vessel was launched to assist, but the rescue boat later flipped as it was crossing the channel through the mouth of the river. Locals reported swells of up to five metres at the time.
Rescue Operation
A joint operation involving air rescue, the State Emergency Service, and NSW Ambulance was launched, with crews working in darkness and heavy spray. Four people were pulled from the water alive, but three others could not be saved. It is understood that two of those who lost their lives were volunteers for the Marine Rescue organisation.
One man was winched to safety by a rescue helicopter and treated for chest injuries, while three others made it to shore without assistance and were taken to Lismore Base Hospital for observation.
Missing Persons and Search Efforts
Authorities have confirmed that others remain unaccounted for, with police believing the yacht has sunk and the number of people on board still unknown. The search was suspended overnight due to the hazardous conditions and resumed at first light on Tuesday.
Conditions at the river entrance off Ballina are widely regarded as dangerous, particularly in rough seas. The community remains on alert as the search continues for any further survivors.
