URGENT UPDATE: A beloved Sydney mother-of-two, Melissa Austin, tragically drowned on New Year’s Day at Dunbogan Beach, NSW Mid North Coast. The incident occurred just before 3 PM when Melissa, aged 45, was pulled unresponsive from the water, leading to a desperate attempt at resuscitation by paramedics and police at the scene.
Melissa was on holiday with her family when the incident unfolded. Reports indicate she had just arrived that day, raising questions about whether she was with her husband, Joel Austin, and their two young boys at the time. Her death has left the Berowra community in shock, as tributes pour in from colleagues and friends who remember her as a talented hairdresser and a devoted mother.
“Such a beautiful individual and a big part of the fabric that is the Berowra community,” one local shared online. Another noted, “Mel was such a beautiful person; the salon is a crucial contributor to our community.”
A close friend, Carolyn Douglas, expressed her heartbreak: “She is such a beautiful person, and the Berowra community will not be the same without her.” The sentiments echo throughout numerous tributes emphasizing the profound loss felt by many.
This incident is part of a disturbing trend over the New Year’s period, with three drownings reported and two swimmers still missing, including a 14-year-old boy. Surf Life Saving NSW reported over 85 rescues since Christmas Day, highlighting an alarming rise in drowning incidents amid challenging conditions.
Steve Pearce, chief executive of Surf Life Saving NSW, stated, “This spate of rescues and drownings has just caught everyone off guard.” He emphasized that the risk of drowning during this period is three times higher than at any other time of the year.
The local community mourns, as Melissa’s colleagues at Mel’s Hair and Beauty in Berowra Heights described themselves as “broken” by the news. Friends and family are now left to navigate this tragic loss, as they come together to honor Melissa’s memory and support her grieving family.
As investigations continue, the community is urged to remain vigilant while enjoying the water during the summer holiday season. This tragic incident serves as a somber reminder of the risks associated with swimming, particularly in unpredictable conditions.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
