Three people have died following a boating accident off the New South Wales north coast, including two volunteers from the local Marine Rescue Unit.
Emergency services were called about 6:15pm on Monday, after a member of the public reported a yacht having difficulties off the South Ballina breakwall.
Marine Rescue NSW responded to the incident, but the vessel rolled while crossing the Ballina Bar in rough conditions.
Superintendent Joe McNulty from the NSW Police Marine Area Command described the conditions as “treacherous” and paid tribute to the volunteers involved.
“We need to remember and reflect on the heroic actions of this crew overnight,” he said.
“These people do a fantastic job, volunteers in the community and putting their life at risk to go and save another vessel that was stricken and in danger.”
“The search still continues for possibly another person off that yacht that has broken up and sunk.”
NSW Police confirmed three people have died.
One man was brought 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.
“That Marine Rescue boat had six crew members on it last night, and thankfully those other members are well with minor injuries in hospital and being kept there for precautionary reasons,” Superintendent McNulty said.
NSW Police Minister Yasmin Catley also paid tribute to the volunteers, acknowledging the impact on the local community.
“I think it’s important that we remember everybody’s family and friends at this time,” she said.
“This will be a shocking experience for all of those, but also for a community like Ballina.
“It is a close-knit community, and they will really be feeling this today.”
Police believe the yacht involved has sunk.
The search operation, which involved SES, NSW Ambulance and air rescue has been suspended on Monday morning.
Police confirmed the body of a man, believed to be in his 50s, was found near the scene. He has yet to be formally identified.
The bodies of a 78-year-old and 62-year-old Marine Rescue crew members have also been located.
Four further crew members, aged 55, 75, and two aged 61 survived and were taken to hospital, with authorities confirming no one else was on board the yacht.
Ballina Mayor Sharon Cadwallader described the incident as “heartbreaking” and praised the volunteers for their courage.
“It’s our priority to support those affected and for recognising the bravery of our volunteers,” she said.
“They show this courage and commitment, they face the challenging and dangerous conditions as responders, and all they were doing was acting with their normal professionalism and bravery to save lives.
“These volunteers, they’re an essential part of our community and we’re deeply, deeply grateful for their service.”
Image: Nine
