“Horror disaster”
Four people drowned off Australian island
Four people drowned off the Australian south coast. A news site writes of a “horror accident”. photo
© 7news Melbourne/7NEWS MELBOURNE/AAP/dpa
Phillip Island is considered a popular day trip destination from Melbourne. According to authorities, the worst beach tragedy in the state in almost 20 years has occurred there.
In a tragic accident, four people drowned in the sea off the Australian south coast. The victims were three women and one man, Australian broadcaster ABC reported. The group was on an unguarded beach on Phillip Island near Melbourne probably waded through shallow water and then got into a shoal – i.e. a place with very deep water. The news website Perth Now spoke of a “horror accident”.
Rescue workers who rushed to the scene were only able to rescue three of those affected from the water dead. One of the women – possibly a tourist – initially survived but later died in a Melbourne hospital, police confirmed. She is said to have been friends with the other three people, all of whom are from Melbourne. According to authorities, this is the worst beach tragedy in the state of Victoria in almost 20 years.
The accident site was reportedly near Forrest Caves, a popular tourist destination on Phillip Island and famous for its sea caves. The beach, known for its dangerous swimming conditions, is not patrolled by lifeguards. Phillip Island, with its numerous attractions, is a popular destination for day trips from Melbourne.