The multi-agency search for a missing fisherman in the Illawarra has been scaled back.
About 7.40pm on Monday 21 December 2025, emergency services were contacted after belongings were found on the rocks at Bushrangers Bay, Shell Cove.
Officers attached to Lake Illawarra Police responded to the scene and were told a 34-year-old man was last seen fishing on the rock shelf, around 2pm.
A short time later, a search commenced, involving the TOLL Helicopter. About 11.30pm the search was suspended to resume at first light.
About 8am yesterday (Tuesday 23 December 2025), the search resumed for the missing rock fisherman, involving officers attached to Lake Illawarra Police District with assistance from the NSW Police Marine Area Command, NSW Police divers, Marine Rescue NSW, Surf Life Savers, Lifesaver helicopter and State Emergency Service.
About 3.15pm, the search concluded due to poor weather conditions.
About 8am today ( Wednesday 24 December 2025) the water search resumed, involving NSW Police Marine Area Command, Surf life Saving, Marine Rescue NSW and
About 1pm today the search was scaled back.
NSW Police Marine Area Command and Surf Life Saving will continue proactive patrols in the coming days.
