Easter Tragedy: Record Drownings Across Australia Amid Dangerous Swells

April 21, 2025
Easter Tragedy: Record Drownings Across Australia Amid Dangerous Swells
  • 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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news.com.au — Australia’s leading news site • Apr 21, 2025

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