Search for snorkeller who disappeared off Melbourne beach
A frantic search is underway to find a snorkeller who disappeared while swimming with friends at Melbourne’s Altona Beach.
The 20-year-old woman from Ashwood in the city's east disappeared from sight while snorkelling in waters off a pier about 11:15am on Saturday.
Her distraught family were seen on a rock pier awaiting news as water police and Surf Life Saving Victoria search the water.
Local Tim Dynon told the Herald Sun the area is popular with snorkellers but could be dangerous for those unfamiliar with the area.
“There are rocks and it drops off quite quickly, if the wind changes it would only take seconds before you get into trouble,” he said.
The search continued well into the night Saturday and resumed Sunday morning.
A desperate search is tonight underway for a snorkeller, feared drowned at Altona Beach.
The 20 year old woman's family remains at the spot where she vanished more than six hours ago. @LizGwynn #9News pic.twitter.com/kaUXARN1Lk— 9News Melbourne (@9NewsMelb) January 30, 2021
It comes as Victoria faces its worst six months on record for drowning deaths, with 35 fatalities since last July.
Seven people have drowned in the past month.
Meanwhile snorkeller died after being pulled from the water at Narrabeen on Sydney's northern beaches on Monday.
Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.
You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter and download the Yahoo News app from the App Store or Google Play.
