Desperate search for missing swimmer near Kalbarri still ongoing with State Emergency Service now involved

The search for a missing 19-year-old man is ongoing after it was reported he was swept away while body surfing in waters south of Kalbarri on Tuesday afternoon. About 3.20pm on Tuesday, police received a report that a male, who was in the water off the coast of Lucky Bay in Yallabatharra, about 30km south of Kalbarri, was seen struggling and became distressed. The teenager had been with a friend body surfing when he got swept away and a search commenced. Water police is co-ordinating the search, which involves crews from the WA Police Force, SES, Surf Lifesaving WA, Volunteer Marine Rescue WA who are using aircraft, drones, vessels, jet skis and ATVs. On Wednesday, a police spokeswoman said the search was continuing and additional resources had been sent to the area. On Easter Sunday a 73-year-old man drowned in Shark Bay. St John WA paramedics tried to save the man after he was pulled from the water about 12.30pm. Police said he could not be revived. A report into his death is being prepared for the Coroner. Royal Life Saving Society WA chief executive Peter Leaversuch told The West he was “deeply saddened” by the latest water incidents. “These incidents, along with the alarming number of drownings recorded nationally over the Easter long weekend, highlight the urgent need for water safety to remain a priority for everyone,” he said. “They are a reminder of how quickly things can go wrong around the water — whether at the beach, river or backyard pool. No matter your age or swimming ability, water safety must always be front of mind. We urge everyone to take simple precautions to keep themselves, their families and their friends safe around the water: wear a lifejackets, supervise children and avoid swimming alone. These actions can and will save lives.” Mr Leaversuch said “broader support and investment” was needed to ensure everyone could develop swim skills. “We can’t always rely on someone being there to help, which is why personal ability in the water matters so much,” he said. “Teaching people to swim and survive is a vital part of building personal resilience and community safety.”