Three men have died after their boat crashed into rocks before capsizing near the lighthouse at La Perouse.
Emergency services were called to the scene around 12.30pm on Sunday afternoon, where the three men, believed to be middle-aged, were pulled from the water. They were unable to be revived.
The men, yet to be formally identified, are not believed to have been wearing lifejackets. An investigation into the tragedy is now under way.
NSW Ambulance duty operations manager Inspector Geoff Senior said his thoughts were with the families of the three men.
"This was a vast joint emergency response where everyone worked together extremely well under these demanding circumstances," he said.
"It goes to show how quickly a situation can change – it is an absolutely disastrous way to end a weekend."
Three men died after their boat crashed into rocks at La Perouse. Credit:Nine News
All crew involved in the rescue effort are now receiving counselling following the incident.
"All the emergency services involved in the rescue today did absolutely everything they could and unfortunately the outcome was not what we had hoped for," Inspector Senior said.
"We want everybody to be able to enjoy activities in and around the water, but you have to know your limits and ensure the proper precautions are always taken."
Emergency services respond to the boat crash that left three men dead. Credit:Nine News
Westpac Helicopter rescue crewman Clayton Allison said the operation was under a kilometre away from the helicopter base.
"When we are this close, it really gives us a great chance to make a difference and get in early, unfortunately today the outcome wasn’t as we would have liked," Mr Allison said. "Any time a life is lost, it is difficult for the crew."
Mr Allison said the men were likely fishing and said the conditions at sea were mild.
Rescuers initially found two of the men, winching them into the helicopter via a rescue swimmer in an effort to revive them. Shortly after, the third man was spotted and rescued from the water by NSW Ambulance Toll Rescue Helicopter.
"Both people were unconscious, so it took a little bit to get them both onboard the aircraft," Mr Allison said.
Sarah is a journalist for The Sydney Morning Herald.
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2020-07-05 07:14:53Z
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