Police used the Eagle helicopter to search for the swimmer last night.
The search was assisted by five lifeguards from the Bethells Beach Surf Lifesaving Club.
“I know the swimmer’s friends are quite shaken up by the events that unfolded very quickly last night, and we are ensuring there is support in place for them,” Winthrop said.
Police acknowledged the SAR team at the Bethells Beach Surf Lifesaving Club for their support and said the death will be referred to the coroner.