Authorities in Tasmania confirmed that the body of a man was recovered from the River Derwent near New Norfolk after he went missing while swimming with friends. The search operation began around 7 pm following reports of his disappearance, and involved marine search and rescue teams and a helicopter. Tragically, the man's body was found in the water shortly before 10 pm, marking a heartbreaking conclusion to the search efforts.

Local law enforcement expressed condolences to the bereaved family, highlighting the challenging circumstances of the incident. Derwent Valley Mayor Michelle Dracoulis also conveyed her sympathies, noting the dedication of emergency services personnel who worked throughout the night to locate the swimmer. This incident has drawn attention to the safety concerns associated with swimming in rivers, especially in areas where there is limited supervision.

In the aftermath of the discovery, a report will be prepared for the coroner, which is a standard procedure in such cases. The community is mourning, and there is a call for increased awareness regarding swimming safety in local waterways, particularly during summer when recreational swimming activity tends to rise. This tragic event serves as a reminder of the potential dangers posed by natural water bodies.