A large-scale emergency operation is continuing in Victoria after a young boy vanished while swimming with his family at a popular coastal location. Danny, a 12-year-old from Taylors Hill in Melbourne's northwest, disappeared from his family's view during a beach trip on Sunday morning.
Disappearance at Number Four Beach
The incident occurred at approximately 11.30am on Sunday at Number Four Beach in Venus Bay, located in Victoria's southeast. Danny was swimming when he suddenly went missing, prompting immediate concern from his family members who were present at the scene.
Emergency Response Activated
Emergency services were alerted and rushed to the beach shortly after 1pm, launching a comprehensive search operation that involved multiple agencies. Victoria Police confirmed that their Air Wing and Water Police Squad were deployed alongside Coast Guard units, SES personnel, and Life Saving Victoria teams.
Beachgoers who were present at the time also joined the initial search efforts, creating a community response to the distressing situation. Despite these combined efforts, there has been no sign of the missing boy as of Sunday evening.
Description of Missing Child
Danny was last seen wearing distinctive clothing that may help identification. He had on a navy rashie and navy board shorts featuring a white stripe at the time he disappeared.
The boy is described as approximately 170cm tall with a thin build. He has dark short hair and dark eyes, according to the official description released by authorities.
Search Operations Continue
Victoria Police issued a statement confirming that the search would continue until last light on Sunday and would recommence at first light on Monday morning. The challenging coastal conditions and fading daylight have complicated the operation, but authorities remain committed to the search.
'The search will continue until last light and recommence in the morning,' Victoria Police stated in their official communication about the incident.
Appeal for Public Assistance
Police are urgently appealing to anyone who may have information about Danny's whereabouts to come forward immediately. This includes anyone who was at Venus Bay on Sunday morning or who may have seen a boy matching Danny's description.
'Anyone who sights Danny, or with information on his whereabouts is urged to contact Wonthaggi Police Station,' the police statement emphasized.
The disappearance has sent shockwaves through the local community and serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers that can accompany beach activities, even during family outings. As the search enters its next phase, authorities remain hopeful for a positive outcome while preparing for all possibilities.
