Three people have died and four others have made it ashore after a boating accident in waters off NSW’s Northern Rivers region.
Emergency services were called about 6.15pm on Monday by a member of the public who reported a yacht which appeared to be in difficulties off the South Ballina break wall, NSW Police said.
“A crew from Marine Rescue NSW responded; however, their vessel rolled while crossing the Ballina Bar in heavy conditions,” a police statement said.
“At this time, three people are confirmed deceased, while four made it to shore; it’s unknown how many people were on the yacht. It’s believed the yacht has now sunk.”
Police are at the scene and a search and rescue is being coordinated by Marine Area Command.
The four injured people were being checked by paramedics, but are not believed to have life-threatening injuries.
The AMSA (Australian Maritime Safety Authority) Challenger jet and Westpac Rescue Helicopter from Lismore are assisting the search.
One local man said on social media he had “never seen” so many emergency service vehicles go past his home after living there for 10 years.
More to come
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Sarah McPhee is the Overnight Homepage Editor for The Sydney Morning Herald.Connect via email.From our partners
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