It's believed another life has been lost after a rock fisherman was swept off rocks and into the sea at Little Bay this afternoon.
At around 3.45pm a witness saw a fisherman disappear into the water and did not re-surface.
Emergency services were contacted and a major search operation was underway.
Services from the NSW Ambulance, Ambulance MRU Helicopter, NSW Police, Water Police, Westpac Lifesaver Helicopter, Surf Life Saving NSW and an unknown Helicopter all responded.
A total of three helicopters hovered in the sky with Jet Ski's and boats patrolling the water.
A special green dye was thrown into the sea to monitor currents. A hat was located in the ocean but there was no sign of the missing fisherman.
Stephen Leahy from Westpac Lifesaver helicopter said their response was extremely quick, with their operations base less than a few minutes away.
The safety message has again been repeated by George Shales from Surf Life Saving NSW. He said that for only $50.00 this man would have been rescued and could have been safe at home with his family this evening.
Fishing with at least two people present is also recommended.
Henry Qwan, a fisherman visiting the area was seen proudly wearing his $50.00 jacket. He said that it's great for storage of fishing supplies and he understand the risks and says clearly that it would save his life.
The search has been abandoned and it's expected a body recovery will be completed in the coming days.
Police are investigating the disappearance and are asking any witnesses to the incident to come forward.
This incident follows another tragic death of a rock fisherman on the 11th November 2012 also at Little Bay.
NSW Primary Industries has a dedicated website to assist fishing enthusiasts and professionals on important safety tips.
www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fisheries/r...