Bronte rescue: Four swimmers are rescued after becoming entangled in a rip at popular Sydney beach
Four swimmers are lucky to be alive after they were rescued from a notorious rip while taking a sunset dip at a popular beach, prompting a warning from surf lifesavers.
The swimmers were enjoying a dip at Sydney's Bronte Beach around 8pm on Tuesday evening when they became entangled in a dangerous rip that feeds around the ocean pools.
Beachgoers and local surf lifesavers rescued the swimmers and helped them to shore, where they were assessed by paramedics.
The swimmers did not require hospitalization.
Bronte Beach in Sydney, hours after four swimmers had to be rescued from a dangerous rip by beachgoers and lifeguards
A fifth swimmer later got caught in the same rip, but managed to swim to shore without major problems.
The near-drowning occurred after another scorching day in Sydney.
Surf Life Saving NSW has reminded beachgoers to swim between the flags and not enter the water if the beach is unsupervised.
“There was an increased danger due to the large number of people,” said James Caterson, Duty Officer of Surf Life Saving NSW Sydney.
“I think it all comes back to that clear message: understand your limitations and just swim between the red and yellow flags.”
Thousands are expected to flock to the beach over the festive period, with temperatures expected to reach 30 degrees Celsius in Sydney this Sunday and two days later on Boxing Day.
The swimmers ran into trouble at a notorious rip near the Bronte Beach ocean pools (pictured)