Tragic Surf Rescue Ends in Death as Storm Hits Melbourne

A tragic incident off the coast of Melbourne resulted in the deaths of a surfer and his friend who attempted to rescue him during severe weather conditions. The accident occurred late on March 6, 2024, at Frankston Pier, where wind gusts reached up to 130 kph (81 mph). Police confirmed that both individuals could not be revived after being pulled from the turbulent waters.

According to police reports, a 36-year-old British man, who resided in suburban Frankston, chose to surf despite the hazardous conditions. As he struggled in the water, his surfboard broke, leading to a distressing situation. Detective Inspector Melissa Nixon stated that the surfer lacked experience and was clearly in trouble, prompting his friend, a 43-year-old local, to jump in for a rescue.

“The surfer was obviously in distress,” Nixon explained, emphasizing the risks involved. “His friend saw he was struggling and jumped in to help him.” Unfortunately, both men were eventually recovered by a police rescue helicopter, but attempts to revive them were unsuccessful.

One emergency responder was hospitalized after inhaling a significant amount of water but has since been discharged. The identities of the deceased have not been released pending formal identification.

The severe weather conditions not only resulted in this tragic event but also caused widespread disruptions across Melbourne and the surrounding areas in Victoria. Strong winds knocked down trees and branches, leaving thousands of homes and businesses without power.

Detective Inspector Nixon urged the public to exercise caution, particularly during adverse weather conditions. “People should not enter the water when conditions are unsafe,” she advised, highlighting the dangers that can arise from such decisions.

The community mourns the loss of two lives in this unfortunate incident, a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of the ocean and the importance of safety in extreme weather.