Two people have drowned and a third is in the care of paramedics after a boat capsized near the Yamba Breakwall, say Surf Life Saving NSW.
In a media release they say, ‘Just after 6.30am the Surf Life Saving NSW State Operations Centre (SOC) was advised by Marine Area Command that a vessel had overturned at the Yamba Bar and there was an unknown number of people in the water’.
‘The Yamba SLSC Emergency Call Out Team was tasked and launched an Inflatable Rescue Boat from the club, while a Surf Life Saving jet ski was also used.
‘A man was rescued by a passing vessel conscious and breathing and has been transported to hospital while two others, a male and a female, were found deceased in the water.
‘Since 1 July 2025 there have been 45 coastal drownings in NSW, half of which were beach and rip related (22).
‘This past fortnight has been catastrophic on our coastline – these are the seventh and eighth drownings in under two weeks,’ SLSNSW CEO, Steve Pearce said.
‘It follows the double drowning yesterday at Shellharbour on the South Coast as well.
‘In under 24 hours our lifesavers and other emergency services have responded to four tragic drownings which have been beach and boating related, which reinforces that whether it be summer or not, the risks remain the same along our coastline.
‘Our thoughts and sympathy goes out to all the families of the victims.’
Beach Safety Tips
- Always swim between the red and yellow patrol flags
- Read the safety signs for information about the beach and ask a lifesaver or lifeguard for safety information
- Swim with someone else so you can look out for each other and always supervise children around the water
- Never swim under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- If you need help in the water, stay calm and attract attention by raising one arm
- In an emergency, dial Triple Zero (000) – Police
- For information about patrol times, weather, and beach locations visit the Beachsafe Website or Download the App.
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