POLICE and emergency services are continue to search for a 41-year-old male who was swept off the rocks with two others at a beach off Punch Bowl Road on Good Friday, April 18 around 8.30am.
The search for the male has been ongoing since Friday with emergency services suspending the effort at dusk each day and resuming again in daylight.
The search follows the rescue of an unresponsive woman in the water on Friday shortly after the trio were washed off the rocks.
A second female managed to make her way back to shore and is recovering.
The coastline around Punch Bowl has been restricted due to the operation and will be until further notice.
Bass Coast Shire Council has extended its deepest sympathies to the family and loved ones of the woman who tragically lost her life at Punch Bowl Rocks near San Remo on Friday morning.
Bass Coast Mayor, Cr Rochelle Halstead expressed the community’s sorrow at the devastating news.
“Our hearts go out to the family and friends of those involved in this terrible incident. This is an unimaginable loss, and on behalf of Council and the wider Bass Coast community, I offer our heartfelt condolences during this incredibly difficult time.”
Specialist police units, including AirWing and Water Police Squad have joined the search alongside local Police and volunteers from SES San Remo, SES Phillip Island, SES Wonthaggi, Woolamai Beach Surf Life Saving Club, Volunteer Marine Rescue Mornington and Hastings, and officers from Victorian Fisheries Authority.
Anyone with information regarding the incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or Wonthaggi Police Station 5671 4100.
