By JOLENE OGLE
A 51-year-old NSW man has died after drowning in the ocean off Sunshine Beach last Friday at about 4pm.
Witnesses on the beach said the man and his friend appeared to be fighting a rip before eventually swimming closer to shore.
When making their way back to the beach, witnesses said the man appeared unsteady on his feet before falling face-first into the surf.
The man was unconscious when pulled from the water where beach goers applied CPR until ambulance officers arrived.
The man was airlifted to hospital but soon died.
SLSQ Sunshine Coast regional manager Aaron Purchase said it is always tragic to hear of such incidents and wanted to remind everyone to swim between the flags.
“We sound like a broken record, but swim between the flags,” he said.
“It’s the safest place on the beach and life savers are there constantly monitoring conditions to keep everyone safe.”
Mr Purchase said it’s important to always follow the directions of lifesavers and if anyone ever wants to learn more about beach conditions, just wander up for a chat.
“Anyone can chat with the guys and girls to learn more about surf conditions and what to look out for,” he said.
