Grave concerns for swimmer swept away from popular Queensland beach

UPDATE: A search underway on the Sunshine Coast has so far failed to locate a 19-year-old Brisbane man who was reported missing after going swimming in rough surf at Noosa North Shore yesterday afternoon.

"Obviously we're now very concerned for his welfare. The sea conditions aren't the best. Visibility through the water isn't great," said Senior Constable, Michael Brantz.

The man was swimming with a friend on Sunday afternoon before reportedly being caught in a rip and dragged out to sea at about 2:30pm, Queensland Police say.

A number of emergency crews are searching for the missing 19-year-old. Source: 7News

"One of them managed to get out and the other one we haven't been able to find," said Senior Constable, Michael Brantz.

A search started immediately on Sunday afternoon but was suspended later due to fading light.

A rescue helicopter has joined in the search for the missing man. Source: 7News.

Water police, a helicopter and jet skis will resume searching at first light for a 19-year-old Brisbane man who's been missing since going swimming at Noosa North Shore. Photo: Surf Life Saving Queensland

Police say the young man, reportedly of Tongan descent, was on a camping trip with friends at the unpatrolled beach that has been pounded by unpredictable two-metre swells and strong currents.

Surf Life Saving Queensland District Duty Officer Peter Lucas is urging swimmers to swim only at patrolled beaches because of the powerful swells lashing the eastern coast beaches.

“The message doesn’t seem to be getting through that people need to swim between the flags,” he said.

Morning news break - January 25