Goya Dmytryshchak
The body of a missing snorkeller was found off Altona Beach on Monday, renewing calls for water safety.
The 20-year-old Ashwood woman had been in the water with family and friends when she went missing on Saturday morning, police said. Family members raised the alarm about 11.15am.
Victoria Police and Life Saving Victoria helicopters had scoured the water over Altona and Seaholme, joined by Water Police, specialist divers from the Search and Rescue Squad and others.
LSV assisted with its lifeguards and volunteer lifesavers, the Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter, a drone, two jet skis and two inflatable rescue boats from Altona Lifesaving Club.
On Monday morning, search and rescue crews broadened their search. The Search and Rescue Squad found a woman’s body in waters off Altona pier about 10.30am.
A small group gathered at the beach was visibly distressed.
The water surrounding Altona and Seaholme is popular for swimmers, boaters, fishers and divers.
The tragedy comes as Victoria marked its worst period for drownings with 42 lives lost since July last year.
LSV state agency commander Kane Treloar said the woman had last been seen about 100 metres from shore and 400 metres outside the flagged zone at Altona Beach.
“Our thoughts are with the family and friends … during what is no doubt an extremely distressing time,” he said.
“After a horror year in Victorian waters, in which we’ve already seen 42 confirmed fatal drownings since 1 July, we’re urging people to make safety their number one priority around water.
“If you’re heading to the coastline or waterways, make sure you’re checking the weather conditions and planning before you go.
“This means making sure you’re heading to patrolled locations at patrolled times and swimming between the red and yellow flags.”
Mr Treloar said divers and snorkellers should ensure they always headed out, and stayed, with a mate.
“Don’t head out if you’re feeling unwell, and always dive within your limits,” he said.
“Conditions can change in an instant, which is why it’s so important to always stay in control in the water.”
Hobsons Bay Inspector Tim O’Connor said police would await further information from the coroner’s court in relation to the cause of death.
