Emma Pritchard

There were tragic scenes at Minnie Water on April 4 when a man drowned at a local beach.

Emergency services responded to a call shortly before 5pm, following reports a surfer had been discovered unconscious in the water near the Illaroo campground.

Officers from the Coffs/Clarence Police District along with NSW Ambulance and the Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter also attended.

A 48-year-old man was winched from the water by rescue helicopter personnel but sadly, he was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The man’s identity was not released at the time of publication.

Officers from the Coffs/Clarence Police District spoke to witnesses and a report will be prepared for the coroner.

Anyone with further information regarding the incident is encouraged to contact CrimeStoppers on 1800 333 000.