UK father and son die after getting into trouble in water off coast of popular Australian beach

A father and son from the UK have died after getting into trouble off the coast of a popular Australian beach.

Emergency services were called to 1770 beach in the southeast of Queensland at around 2.17pm on Sunday following reports of three people being swept into the ocean.

A 46-year-old father and his 17-year-old son, who were holidaying from the UK, were pronounced dead at the scene.

The third person, believed to be the father’s brother-in-law – 43-year-old Mike Evans, a mechanic from Minto in New South Wales – tried to rescue them but was thrown against rocks by large surf, suffering serious head injuries.

Multiple emergency crews responded, including paramedics, surf lifesavers, Queensland Fire and Emergency Services, and the rescue helicopter.

Tour operator Neil Mergard, who was on the water at the time, described the scene as “action stations”.

“While out on tour, we saw a fair bit of frantic activity with boats and things out by the bar,” he said.

“The emergency services sprung into life and the helicopter was in the air soon after.

“We could see them doing their work, winching out the deceased.”

“Thankfully, these days we have this kind of support, and these government agencies work together to at least give grieving families closure. I know for people who’ve lost loved ones at sea, that closure is a big thing.”

A spokesperson from CapRescue in Australia said: “Sunday’s mission was a difficult one. At 2.17pm, emergency services were called to 1770 after reports three people had been swept out into the ocean.

“Multiple crews were tasked to the scene, including CapRescue.

“Despite the best efforts of all involved, two people tragically lost their lives. One patient was transported by air to the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital in a life-threatening condition.”

The UK foreign office has confirmed they providing support to those affected by the incident.

A spokesperson said: “We are supporting the family of two British nationals who have died in Australia and are in contact with the local authorities.”