The search for an East Timorese man swept from rocks while fishing at Emerald Beach has been suspended after an extensive multi-agency operation.
Emergency services were called to Emerald Beach headland, north of Coffs Harbour, about 7.15pm on Monday 6 April 2026, following reports a 32-year-old man had been washed into the ocean.
Officers attached to Coffs/Clarence Police District were told the man had been fishing with others when he was swept off rocks.
A large-scale search was launched involving Coffs Harbour Water Police, the Westpac Rescue Helicopter, Marine Rescue NSW volunteers, and other emergency services, with crews scouring both the ocean and shoreline.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Courtney Greenslade said volunteers from the Coffs Harbour and Woolgoolga units had been heavily involved in the operation.
“Volunteers on board Coffs Harbour 30 are working alongside NSW Water Police,” she said.
“Marine Rescue NSW volunteers from both the Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour units have been committed to this search since Monday, and our volunteers will continue assisting until instructed otherwise by Marine Area Command.”
Despite favourable conditions and sustained efforts, the man was not located.
The formal search was suspended at 1.00pm on Thursday 9 April 2026.
Police confirmed Water Police and other agencies will continue to monitor and search the waters off Emerald Beach in the coming days as part of routine patrols.
Something going on in your part of the North Coast people should know about? Let us know by emailing newsdesk@nctimes.com.au