A 34-year-old man tragically drowned in the rough seas of Jervis Bay on Saturday afternoon, marking the second drowning incident in the area within two days. This follows the death of a fisherman near Currarong on the northern peninsula of the bay on Friday.
The incidents have cast a shadow over the start of the new year, with emergency services called to Greenpatch Beach, located on the southern shore of Jervis Bay, after reports of multiple people struggling in the rough conditions. According to ACT Policing, “A 34-year-old NSW man was brought back to the beach and CPR was commenced; however, he was declared deceased at the scene.”
Three other individuals were treated on the beach by paramedics but did not require further medical attention. ACT Policing is preparing a report for the Coroner to investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
Two Days of Tragedy
The drowning on Saturday follows a similar incident on Friday at Lobster Bay Beach, south of Shoalhaven. Emergency services responded in the early afternoon after off-duty lifesavers pulled a man, believed to be in his 50s, from the water. The man, who had been fishing, became entangled in a net. Despite efforts by paramedics, he could not be revived. Police are investigating whether he drowned or suffered a medical incident such as a heart attack.
These back-to-back incidents highlight the dangers of the sea, especially during adverse weather conditions. Greenpatch Beach, located within the Booderee National Park in the Jervis Bay Territory, is known for its scenic beauty but also its unpredictable waters.
A Grim Start to the Year
The new year has begun with several fatalities along the Australian coast. Prior to the Jervis Bay tragedies, two women drowned near Sydney, and an Irish national lost his life at a Queensland tourist beach on the last day of 2025. Surf Lifesaving NSW chief executive Steve Pearce described the recent death toll as “absolutely horrendous.”
The tragic start to 2026 began at Maroubra on New Year’s Day, when a 25-year-old woman, believed to be a Chinese national, was swept into the ocean by waves after being knocked into a tidal rock pool. Later that day, surf lifesavers at Coogee searched for a missing swimmer, highlighting the ongoing risks faced by beachgoers.
Expert Opinions and Safety Measures
Experts emphasize the importance of adhering to safety warnings and being aware of weather conditions before entering the water. Surf Lifesaving NSW continues to advocate for increased public awareness and education on beach safety.
“The ocean can be unpredictable and unforgiving. It’s crucial that people respect the power of the sea and take necessary precautions,” said Steve Pearce.
Authorities are urging the public to swim only at patrolled beaches and to heed the advice of lifesavers. They also recommend that individuals avoid swimming alone and stay within designated swimming areas.
Looking Forward
As investigations into the recent drownings continue, there is a renewed focus on improving safety measures and ensuring that beachgoers are adequately informed about potential hazards. The tragic events serve as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and respect for the ocean’s power.
Moving forward, local authorities and surf lifesaving organizations will likely increase their efforts to promote water safety and prevent further tragedies. The community is urged to remain cautious and prioritize safety during beach outings.
