Updated 4 January 2026: The search and rescue operation for a teenager missing after a fatal boat incident at Palm Beach on New Year’s Eve has ended. The 16 year old boy’s body has not been found.
About 11.35am (Wednesday 31 December 2025), emergency services were called to Palm Beach, following reports a boat had capsized in the vicinity of Barrenjoey Headland.
A 47-year-old man was pulled from the water by Surf Life Saving members and treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics; however, he died at the scene.
A second man, aged 45, was able to climb onto rocks before he was rescued by the Toll Ambulance Rescue Helicopter and taken to hospital.
A search operation commenced for a teenaged boy who was a passenger in the boat. Police confirmed today that the search has been suspended; however, Marine Area Command will continue to patrol the Barrenjoey Headland area.
Previously 31 December 2025
A man is dead and a teenager missing after an horrific boat crash this morning at Palm Beach.
Emergency services responded to the fatal boat incident at Palm Beach near Barrenjoey Headland at approximately 11:35am today December 31, 2025, following reports that a boat had capsized and crashed into rocks.
Lifeguards pulled one man from the water. NSW Ambulance paramedics treated him at the scene, but he died. He has not yet been formally identified.
A second man climbed onto rocks and was rescued by the Toll Ambulance Rescue Helicopter. He is currently receiving treatment from paramedics.
A search operation is underway for a 14-year-old boy believed to have been a passenger on the boat. Marine Area Command, PolAir, and Marine Rescue NSW are assisting with the search.
Police are asking anyone with information to contact Northern Beaches police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
