Police have found a body believed to be that of a spearfisher who went missing off the New South Wales Mid North Coast.
Officers searching for Newcastle-based man Yong Li found the body at about 11:30am, approximately 150 metres off Skeleton Rock where the 32-year-old was seen entering the water on Wednesday.
Ryan Baker, the owner of Newcastle shop Spear and Fish Downunder, had crossed paths with Mr Li and said the tight-knit diving community was shaken by the news.
“It’s tragic news … I’m a bit speechless,” Mr Baker said.
“It really hits home — a lot of us have had close calls and stuff go wrong in the water.
“The ocean is really unpredictable and stuff does happen.
“I can only imagine how his family and friends and everyone are feeling right now.”
More than 20 Marine Rescue volunteers from Newcastle, Port Stephens and Forster assisted in the search. (Supplied: Marine Rescue NSW)
Mr Baker said Mr Li was an experienced spearfisher and that currents could be strong at Skeleton Rock, though it was not considered a dangerous site.Â
“Stick close to your dive buddy, watch each other and help each other,” he said.
Mr Baker said he was confident the Newcastle spearfishing community would rally in support for Mr Li’s family.
“Yong is a beloved member of our underwater club and community,” the Newcastle Neptunes Spearfishing Club said in a statement.
“Many people, their family and our members will be devastated to hear of this tragic news,” the statement said.
The body is yet to be formally identified.
A report will be prepared for the coroner.