Two men, aged 46 and 67, drowned while rock fishing on the New South Wales Central Coast amid challenging conditions described as 'very choppy'. Emergency services responded to a distress call at Little Beach, Bouddi late yesterday afternoon, where one man was found face down in the water, leading to a multi-agency search operation. Despite efforts, the 46-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene, while a second man was later found and also confirmed dead.

Both victims, who were identified as visitors from Beecroft, Sydney, were not wearing life jackets at the time of the incident. Police noted that the conditions on the day of the accident were rough, which likely contributed to the tragic outcome. Acting Inspector Richard Nicholson stated that the area was particularly challenging for both fishermen and rescuers, reflecting on the dangers of rock fishing under such adverse weather conditions.

This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the risks associated with rock fishing, especially under adverse conditions. Authorities are urging fishermen to take precautions, including wearing life jackets, to prevent such occurrences in the future as they continue to monitor and respond to safety complaints in the region.