9.40pm: NSW Ambulance resources involved in the search, including the rescue helicopter, have been stood down.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Nothing has been found and no one has been reported missing.
9pm: A search is under way in the ocean off Kiama on Wednesday night after an illuminated torch reportedly washed ashore.
Police and NSW Ambulance resources – including a rescue helicopter – have responded to the incident off Kendalls beach.
The helicopter is using searchlights to scan the water from above, as paramedics wait on the beach.
A NSW Police spokeswoman said a member of the public found a lit torch believed to have washed up on the beach, sparking concerns someone – possibly a boater – was missing at sea.
No one has been reported missing at this stage, the spokeswoman said.
No emergency beacons have been activated and no debris or other property has yet been found.
The surf in the area is reportedly very big. Hazardous surf is being experienced along the Illawarra coast.
The Bureau of Meteorology had warned large and powerful surf conditions were expected to be hazardous for coastal activities such as rock fishing, swimming and surfing.
A hazardous surf warning will remain in place on Thursday.
More to come.
Andrew Pearson
Andrew grew up in the western Riverina town of Hay and has strong ties to the region. He is a former DA journo who has a passion for breaking news and has covered everything from council and politics to crime and court.
Andrew grew up in the western Riverina town of Hay and has strong ties to the region. He is a former DA journo who has a passion for breaking news and has covered everything from council and politics to crime and court.
