Report to Coroner after Surfies Point drowning

PHILLIP Island has had a tragic start to the summer of 2025-26 with yet another drowning, this time at the popular ‘Surfies Point’ beach, near the corner of The Esplanade and Batman Street, Surf Beach.

According to a Cowes police officer who attended the scene, Senior Constable Mark Stapleton, a man in his 60s, who was surfing at the location, was found unresponsive in the water but could not be revived after he was brought ashore by other surfers and beachgoers.

Asked if the incident could have involved a medical episode, S/C Stapleton said he couldn’t say, but that police would prepare a report for the coroner.

S/C Stapleton said those at the beach at the time performed CPR until emergency services arrived, including road ambulances and paramedics, police and the Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) aircraft.

The incident happened around 1pm on Wednesday, December 3.

Locals saw the helicopter perform a brief surveillance between Surf Beach and Forrest Caves before leaving the area.

According to a spokesperson for the police, the man who is yet to be formally identified, died at the scene.

It is understood that a representative of the State Coroner also attended the scene.

A police spokesperson said the man’s death was not being treated as suspicious.

Bass Coast Mayor Cr Rochelle has responded to news of the latest beach tragedy.

“I am deeply saddened to learn of the tragic incident at Surf Beach today. On behalf of Bass Coast Shire Council, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the man’s family, friends and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time,” said Bass Coast Mayor Cr Rochelle Halstead.

“Council acknowledges the assistance of bystanders and first responders who did everything they could under distressing circumstances.

“Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this tragic loss,” she said.

The latest incident follows a tragic run of drownings at Bass Coast and Phillip Island beaches in recent years.

* On Wednesday, January 24, 2024, four members of a family group visiting nearby Forrest Caves drowned

* On Friday, January 12, 2024, a man drowned at Kilcunda surf beach.

* On Wednesday, April 26, 2023, a body-boarder downed at Smiths Beach on Phillip Island,

The incidents have prompted a review of education, messaging and awareness efforts and are expected to result in the roll-out of new signs at hazardous beaches this summer.

Beachgoers are encouraged to install the Beachsafe App on their smartphones offering access the latest information about every beach in Australia including information about conditions, hazards and whether or not the beach is being patrolled.

You’ll find details at: https://beachsafe.org.au/apps