Teen lost off NSW coast turns up on remote island

A TEENAGE surfer spent more than 18 hours stranded on a remote island off the NSW North Coast after being swept out to sea near Wooli.

Darcy Deefholts, 19, was rescued on Thursday morning after being found on North Solitary Island, about 14 kilometres offshore.

He had set out for a surf at the One Tree break near Wooli around 2.30pm on Wednesday and failed to return.

His disappearance triggered a major search involving NSW Police, Surf Life Saving NSW, Marine Area Command, Westpac Rescue Helicopter, NSW Ambulance and SES volunteers.

Marine Rescue crews from Wooli and Coffs Harbour also joined the operation.

Just before 10am Thursday, Darcy was spotted by the rescue helicopter on the island.

He was winched to safety and taken to Grafton Base Hospital, where he remains in a stable condition.

Marine Rescue NSW spokesperson Travis Winks said the volunteer crews were overjoyed when the teen was found alive.

“When the call came across the radio that the missing male had been located alive, the volunteer crews from Marine Rescue Wooli and Marine Rescue Coffs Harbour were jumping for joy on board the rescue vessels,” Winks said.

“Both Marine Rescue NSW vessels were stood down following confirmation and returned to base.

“This is a wonderful outcome.”

Family and friends joined the search, including Darcy’s uncle, who was among those helping comb the coastline.

His father, Terry Deefholts, had also posted an urgent appeal on social media calling for help locating his son.

The water temperature in the area, around 20 degrees, was seen as a hopeful factor during the overnight search, offering a survivable environment despite the conditions.

A Northern NSW Local Health District spokesperson said Darcy remained in Grafton Base Hospital after spending the night alone on the island.

“Darcy is recovering in Grafton Base Hospital after a night alone on a remote island near Wooli,” the spokesperson said.

“He is being treated for mild dehydration and exposure. He is in good spirits and has been reunited with his family.”

NSW Police said inquiries into the incident were continuing.