Tragedy Strikes as Three Drown in Phillip Island

Tragedy unfolded on Wednesday afternoon as three people tragically lost their lives after being caught in a treacherous surf at an unpatrolled beach on Phillip Island. Another individual is currently in critical condition and has been airlifted to The Alfred hospital for urgent medical attention.

Victoria Police were alerted to the distressing situation at Forrest Caves in Newhaven around 3.30pm, where four individuals were reported to be in difficulty. Unfortunately, despite extensive rescue efforts, three women and a man were retrieved from the water unresponsive and despite receiving immediate CPR, they were pronounced dead at the scene. The victims include a man in his 40s and two women in their 20s, with a third woman also in her 20s fighting for her life in hospital.

Family and friends of those involved gathered at the beach, providing support to one another during this devastating incident that has shaken the community. Emotions ran high as tears flowed and solace was sought by those seeking comfort.

Lifeguards from Life Saving Victoria promptly responded to the incident, which occurred at an unpatrolled area on the south-eastern side of Phillip Island. Paramedics from Ambulance Victoria were also called to the scene, arriving shortly after 3.30pm.

Authorities have stated that the deaths are not being treated as suspicious, and a full report will be compiled for the coroner in due course. It is essential to note that a separate drowning incident occurred just two kilometers northwest at Surf Beach earlier this year, highlighting the dangers of the coastal region.