An Australian surfer, now identified as Wooli resident Darcy Deefholts, has been found after being reported missing.
The 19-year-old was located on a small island eight miles from the coast, just one day after.
It was reported he left his home on July 9th, 2025, riding a bike, headed for the beach. Upon failing to return, he family reached out to authorities, leading to a search.
Authorities revealed in a statement, "Following a land and water search around Wooli Beach including local police, PolAir, Marine Area Command and Marine Rescue, the man was located safe today on a small island off Wooli.”
Terry Deefholts, the surfer's father, revealed he couldn't believe his son was found alive.
"It's kind of surreal. I was at the point of thinking the absolute worst. I didn’t give up but, jeez, I was close. It’s a one in a million. Who survives this?”
In a statement, a spokesperson for Northern NSW Local Health District hospital explained the surfer was stable and "in good spirits and being supported by family."
News sources reported he left his phone and smart watch at home, and his bike and clothes were located a One Tree, a local spot. His family said he had taken his surfboard with the intention of going surfing.
During the hours Darcy was missing, the local Wooli community banded together to help search.
Rescue skipper Matthew McLennan said, "It was really heartwarming to see how many community members jumped to the call. It's rare that we ever get to participate in a search with an outcome such as this.”
Comments
Post a Comment