A search is due to resume for a child swept into the ocean off The Entrance yesterday.

Emergency services were alerted after bystanders reported a child had been swept into the ocean while attempting to cross The Entrance Channel about 5.15pm (Sunday 3 November 2024).

Officers attached to Tuggerah Lakes Police District have been told a 43-year-old man was crossing channel, from the North Entrance side, with his four boys – aged 11, nine, seven and three – when the eldest child was swept into the ocean by the current.

While two bystanders looked after the other three children, the man tried to reach the boy but was unsuccessful.

Emergency services were then called to assist, and local police, with the assistance of Marine Area Command, Surf Life Saving, and the Toll and Westpac Rescue Helicopters, immediately initiated an extensive land, air and sea search but were unable to find the child.

The search continued until darkness, when it was suspended.

It was resumed at about 8am today (Monday, 4 November 2024), with all agencies again assisting.

As inquiries continue, anyone with information into the incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence.

The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.