Easter Tragedy: Record Drownings Across Australia Amid Dangerous Swells
April 21, 2025
Life Saving NSW manager Brent Manieri emphasized that many drownings could have been prevented if individuals had observed conditions and stayed away from dangerous areas.
Meteorologist Miriam Bradbury noted that hot weather attracted many beachgoers, who faced hazardous surf conditions caused by a low pressure system.
During the Easter weekend, six people tragically drowned along Australia's east coast due to massive waves, with two others still missing at sea since April 18, 2025.
A fundraiser has been initiated by a family friend to support Kaison's family, emphasizing the community's desire to help them cope with their loss.
This deep low-pressure system, originating from the Tasman Sea, generated dangerous swells exceeding five meters, affecting beaches from Queensland to Victoria.
By Monday, the death toll had risen to eight, with ongoing rescue efforts revealing the fatalities were primarily due to strong ocean swells washing people off rocks.
Adam Weir, head of Surf Life Saving Australia, urged beachgoers to exercise caution, advising them to 'Stay put. Look around. Stay alive.'
Authorities, including South Coast Police District and Marine Rescue, are conducting investigations into the incidents, with indications of tragic misadventure rather than foul play.
Despite warnings, many swimmers and surfers ignored beach closures, leading to multiple incidents at popular locations such as Balmoral and Manly.
Surf Life Saving New South Wales reported over 150 rescues since Good Friday, highlighting the severe risks associated with beach activities during the holiday.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan extended condolences to the victims' families while urging caution among beachgoers.
Among the victims was a young boy named Kaison, who was pronounced dead at the scene after being trapped between rocks, leaving his family heartbroken.
Summary based on 15 sources
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Sources

The Guardian • Apr 21, 2025
Nine-year-old boy dies at popular NSW holiday spot amid spate of drownings over Easter long weekend
BBC News • Apr 21, 2025
Nine-year-old dies as Australia weekend drowning toll rises to seven
news.com.au — Australia’s leading news site • Apr 21, 2025
Heartbreak after boy dies in Easter tragedy