Surf Lifesavers have issued a stark warning that the risk of drowning is four times higher during the Easter long weekend compared to other times of the year.

On April 18, 2025, a 58-year-old fisherman tragically drowned after being swept off a rock at Wollongong Harbour in New South Wales, prompting an emergency response at 6:15 AM.

Emergency services later responded to reports that two women and a man were washed off a rock at a beach near Punch Bowl Rd in Victoria around 8:30 AM.

While one woman managed to return to shore, the other woman and the man did not; the woman was later found unresponsive and could not be revived despite resuscitation efforts.

Authorities are now seeking witnesses to the incident involving the two women and a man in Victoria.

Later the same day, another woman drowned at Middle Head in Mosman, while a search continued for a missing man and woman in San Remo, Victoria, who were swept into the water.

The Bureau of Meteorology has warned residents in New South Wales about hazardous wave conditions affecting several coastal areas, advising swimmers to stay out of the water until conditions improve.

In light of these incidents, Surf Life Saving Australia chief executive Adam Weir urged holidaygoers to choose patrolled beaches, emphasizing that lifesavers are on high alert during this busy period.

Over the past decade, Australia has seen 630 drownings at unpatrolled beaches, with 85% of victims being male, and 59% of these deaths occurring while swimming or wading.

As the Easter holiday continues, surf lifesavers are reiterating the importance of swimming safely and being aware of the increased risks during this time.