BY JORDANN LAVERS
A 71-year old man died at Fingal Bay in Port Stephens on Easter Sunday just after 10:00am on a family beach visit.
Lifeguards were quick to respond to calls for help, with the man found floating in water near the infamous sand spit.
His young female relative was able to make it to safety.
Emergency services were called to reports a man was unresponsive in the water.
NSW Ambulance paramedics administered CPR however, the man was unable to be revived.
This incident follows at least 16 other fatalities at the dangerous northern end of Fingal Bay, prompting immediate calls for an increase in basic safety measures.
President of the Hunter Branch of NSW Surf Life Saving Henry Scruton is hoping additional signage and portable location beacons with a direct radio link to the surf club will be implemented at the popular holiday destination.
Mr Scruton says visitors should be vigilant when using the Bay's waterways.
"It is safe to swim in as long as you have the ability to swim but if you are not a good swimmer don't go over to that island especially when the tides are changing," he said.
The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is reviewing the incident to identify any further measures which need to be implemented to increase visitor awareness in future.
A spokesperson said "visitor safety is a priority."
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| Image: Marine Rescue Port Stephens |
