Man dies in hospital after Ballina surf rescue

A 76-YEAR-OLD man has died after being pulled unconscious from the surf at Lighthouse Beach in Ballina.

Emergency services were called to Lighthouse Beach at East Ballina about 10.20am on Friday 6 March 2026.

Police were told the swimmer had been pulled from the water by members of the public and an off-duty surf lifesaver and was unresponsive.

Police and NSW Ambulance paramedics commenced CPR on the man before he was taken to Lismore Base Hospital in a critical condition.

Police attached to Richmond Police District were later notified the man died in hospital on Sunday night.

NSW Ambulance confirmed there were no reports of a shark incident.

Ballina Lighthouse and Lismore Surf Life Saving Club members also assisted at the scene.

“Our members were able to provide CPR and first aid until the NSW Ambulance arrived,” a spokesperson said.

“Our club would like to thank our members for their service.”

Surf lifesavers have reminded beachgoers to always swim between the flags during patrolled hours to reduce the risk of incidents.

Beaches across the Far North Coast could be closed this week due to hazardous conditions.