Teen Missing: Surf Beach Search – Victoria

Large-Scale Search Underway for Missing 12-Year-Old in Venus Bay, Victoria

A extensive search operation is underway for a 12-year-old boy who went missing while swimming off an unpatrolled beach in Venus Bay, South Gippsland, victoria. Emergency services were alerted to the boy’s disappearance around 12:30 p.m. on Sunday, January 25, 2026.

Did you know? – Venus Bay is a popular summer destination, but its beaches are known for unpredictable conditions. Rip currents are common, and the lack of consistent patrols increases risk.

Dangerous Conditions at Number Four Beach

The search is focused on Number Four beach, known for its rough surf and challenging conditions. According to a spokesperson for the Venus Bay Surf Life Saving Club, the area is considered one of the most dangerous beaches in Victoria. “It’s a pretty standard day. It’s a rough sea, the wind is coming from the south-west,” the spokesperson stated. The club was concluding its championships when the alert came in, prompting many competitors to immediately assist in the search.

Extensive Search Efforts

Authorities have mobilized significant resources, including the police helicopter, water police, the coast guard, and volunteers from the public. Ambulance Victoria paramedics are on standby, prepared to provide immediate medical assistance if the boy is located. Search teams are scouring both the water and the surrounding shoreline, as it remains unclear whether the boy was pulled out to sea or is still near the beach.

Pro tip – Before entering the water, always check local conditions and look for warning signs. If in doubt, don’t go out. Never swim alone,and tell someone your plans.

History of Tragedies at Venus Bay

This incident is not isolated. Tragically, Venus Bay has seen previous drownings. In january 2021, a science teacher from Melbourne drowned while attempting to rescue a struggling teenager. Another man in his 20s lost his life at Number Four beach in 2014, after being pulled unresponsive from the water by local surf club members.

Plea for Beach Safety

Life Saving Victoria is reiterating its crucial message: always swim between the red and yellow flags at patrolled beaches. This simple precaution considerably reduces the risk of drowning and ensures that lifeguards are readily available to provide assistance.

The search for the missing boy continued for over 24 hours, encompassing a wide area of the coastline and seabed. On Monday,January 26,2026,at approximately 3:00 p.m., the boy’s body was tragically recovered by divers approximately 2 kilometers offshore from number Four Beach. Police have confirmed there were no suspicious circumstances, and the death has been referred to the coroner. The boy had been swimming with friends when he was caught in a strong rip current and swept out to sea. The incident underscores the dangers of unpatrolled beaches and the importance of heeding safety warnings. Authorities are urging anyone affected by the tragedy to reach out for support.

Reader question – What more can be done to improve beach safety in areas like Venus Bay, where consistent patrols aren’t feasible? Share your thoughts.