28 January 2025

Body found of 37-year-old who went missing at Darlington Point on Australia Day

| Oliver Jacques
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Campground scenery

Police say the incident occurred at Bunyip Hole campground. Photo: NSW National Parks.

The body of a man who went missing on the river near Darlington Point on Australia Day was found and recovered on Tuesday morning (28 January) following a three-day search.

According to police, a 37-year-old man was reportedly seen falling from a recreational floating device that was being towed behind a boat in the waters off Bunyip Hole Campground on the Murrumbidgee River just after 2 pm on Sunday.

When he failed to resurface and could not be located, emergency services were notified.

Officers attached to Murrumbidgee Police District responded, with assistance from NSW Ambulance, State Emergency Service (SES) and Volunteer Rescue Association (VRA), who commenced a search.

The search was initially suspended and recommenced at 7:30 am on Monday with NSW Police divers attending.

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The search then resumed at 7:30 am Tuesday and involved NSW Police, State Emergency Services and the Volunteer Rescue Association, with the man found deceased soon after.

“It’s a timely reminder about water safety and to remind people to always swim to their ability,” District Inspector Glenn Smith said.

“Alcohol or Drugs do not mix with water. Know the conditions and be aware of possible hazards in the water. Be aware of submerged objects.

“Always read signs posted nearby with safety messages. Inland rivers can have strong undercurrents and submerged objects. Wear life jackets when out on the water on boats or other devices.”

Further details will be provided when available.

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