Surf lifesavers are rallying around each other after a young club member went missing off a Sunshine Coast beach.
A search and rescue operation was launched off Warana Beach on Wednesday afternoon, after an 18-year-old man entered the water before a training session and did not return.
Sunshine Coast Police District Central Patrol Group Chief Inspector Jason Overland said the search was extensive amid rough conditions.
“We’re looking as hard as we can. We’ve got a range of resources looking for him, including Polair, jet skis and surf rescue, as well as people on the beaches,” he said.
Chief Insp Overland said it was a trying time.
“Our thoughts are with the family of that young man,” he said.
“We’ll always hold out hope. That’s why we are continuing the search as hard as we are.”
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Surf Life Saving Queensland chief operating officer Gregory Cahill said club members were banding together.
“Life saving is a tight-knit community,” he said.
“It’s a really sad day …. one of our members is missing.
“We do this (surf lifesaving) every day and every week across our state very proudly but when it’s one of our own it hits home very hard.
“Our efforts are focusing on the search efforts and focusing on supporting the family and supporting our community.
“I’m very proud of the way everyone stood up to focus their efforts.”
A statement to members was also circulated by Surf Life Saving Queensland on Thursday afternoon.
“We are writing to advise members that an incident involving one of our 18-year-old members prior to surf training yesterday afternoon has occurred, and they remain missing at this time, with a multi-agency search operation ongoing,” it said.
“This is an incredibly distressing time for our entire Sunshine Coast surf lifesaving family. Our thoughts are with the member’s family and friends, the clubs they are connected to, as well as those directly impacted.
“We ask all members to respect the privacy of the family during this time and to refrain from speculation, particularly on social media. Official updates will be provided as information becomes available and confirmed by authorities.
“Surf lifesaving is built on strong community and support for one another. We encourage all members across the region to check in with their patrol mates, fellow clubbies and teammates and to access the wellbeing and peer support services available through our organisation if needed.
“We thank members for their understanding and compassion as we navigate this unfolding situation together.”
