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Byron Shire
July 15, 2026

Man dies at unpatrolled Yamba beach

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Pippi Beach, near Yamba. Visit NSW.com.

A man has died after being swept into surf at Pippi Beach, near Yamba, north of Coffs Harbour.

Police have been told a man was in shallow water with a friend at Pippi Beach about 2.30pm yesterday (Monday 26 February 2024), when he was swept into the surf.

He signalled for help before disappearing.

Emergency services were alerted and a search began involving officers attached to Coffs/Clarence Police District and Marine Area Command, Surf Life Saving NSW, the Westpac Rescue Helicopter from the Gold Coast, and NSW Ambulance paramedics.

About 6pm, the man was spotted by the helicopter crew and retrieved by surf-lifesavers; however, he was unable to be revived and died at the scene. Police have been told the 24-year-old man was visiting from Sydney with a friend.

The beach is not patrolled.

A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000.



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