A notoriously dangerous beach on the NSW north coast has witnessed another tragedy after the death of a swimmer.
Emergency services were called to Tallow Beach, near Byron Bay, around 12:30pm on Wednesday, following reports that a man was in trouble in the surf.
A 21-year-old man from Brisbane was found face down in the water by a surfer who brought him to shore.
A NSW Ambulance spokesman said a bystander was performing CPR when paramedics arrived. They continued CPR for another 30 minutes but were unable to revive the man.
It was reported the victim's girlfriend was on the beach and witnessed the man struggling in the water.
Tweed-Byron Local Area Command Sergeant Jason Dowds said: "It was quite rough out there and he did start to struggle and he was underwater for some time before he was dragged out."
NSW Police are investigating the incident and preparing a report for the coroner.
Tallow Beach is not patrolled and regarded by locals as challenging. A man was flown to Lismore Base Hospital on Sunday after nearly drowning in Tallow Creek, which connects with Tallow Beach.
Twenty-year-old Irish backpacker Stuart Butler drowned after being swept out to sea at Tallow Beach in July 2014, prompting the NSW coroner to recommended the installation of warning signs showing daily surf conditions at Byron Bay beaches.
American tourist Shawn Williams also drowned while swimming at the beach in May 2010.
