The Port-Macquarie Hastings community came together on December 10 in a show of support for the family whose 11-year-old boy who was swept out to sea at Lighthouse Beach.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Despite the best efforts of his 17-year-old brother, who attempted to save him, the boy disappeared into the waves and has not been seen since.
People joined hands at Watonga Rocks on Sunday in solidarity and stood silently for one minute to pay their respects to the family.
“As a parent myself, so many thoughts have been dominating my mind since Wednesday about the poor darling boy, his family and all rescue crews involved,” organiser Mandy Davidson said.
“It is devastating that he is still out there somewhere, and it is so sad that our beautiful little town will now serve as such a horrible reminder for the family.
“I know so many of my fellow community members also have been pained over the past few days with thoughts of the boy and his family.
“If we can allow the family to feel the support and love from our community, I feel it is the least we can do to ease even a tiny bit of pain at this horrible time.”
The incident sparked an extensive search for the boy which included Marine Rescue Port Macquarie, lifeguards, emergency services crews and the Westpac Rescue Helicopter responding. Bystanders on the beach assisted the family until help arrived.
Around 20 surf lifesavers and lifeguards were also involved in the search effort which involves three local surf life-saving clubs.
The search for the missing boy was scaled back on December 9.
A spokesperson from NSW Police said officers from Marine Area Command, Marine Rescue and Surf Life Saving continued the search over the weekend.
“The search area is bound by Tacking Point Lighthouse, south to the Camden Haven and three nautical miles out to sea.
“The beach will be searched at both high and low tides.”
Anyone boating or fishing in this area who comes across anything suspicious is urged to contact Port Macquarie Police.
Organisers of the community gathering on Sunday, December 10 are appealing for the public to donate to Surf Life Saving to show appreciation for the search effort.
To make a donation visit http://surflifesaving.gofundraise.com.au/beneficiary/SLSNSW
