Three people deceased after being swept into surf – Port Kembla


View from the Escarpment above Wombarra over the northern Illawarra showing Austinmer, Thirroul, Bulli, Wollongong up to Port Kembla in the far. (Wikimedia Commons)

NSW Police Press Release:

Just after 10pm today (Friday 22 January 2021), emergency services responded to reports that up to 3 people had been washed into the surf at Port Kembla.

Police have been told by witnesses that the group were standing on rocks near an area known as Hill 60 when a large wave broke onto a group of people knocking them into the surf.

Officers attached to Lake Illawarra Police District are currently on scene, with the assistance of the Marine Area Command, NSW Ambulance, as well as rescue helicopters and local lifeguards.

Three people have been confirmed as deceased. Emergency services are continuing a search of the area for possibly other people that may be in the water.

As inquiries continues, police are appealing for anyone who may have witnessed the incident to contact Lake Illawarra police or Crime Stoppers.