Harvey fisherman dies after being swept off rocks at Contos

A 45-year-old man from Harvey has died after being swept off the rocks while fishing at Contos, south of Margaret River in Leeuwin Naturaliste National Park.

Police were advised about 8.20am this morning that two men had been fishing when a large wave came over and swept them out to sea, witnesses spotting them about 400m from the shore.

South West District Superintendent Geoff Stewart said the Life Saver 69 helicopter was in the area at the time and was able to assist.

A rescue swimmer was dropped from the helicopter to a 35-year-old man in the water who appeared to be conscious, before Margaret River Marine Rescue attended in a jetski and brought the man and rescuer to shore at Contos Beach.

He was then conveyed by ambulance to Margaret River Hospital and is receiving treatment. It is believed his injuries are not life-threatening.

The jetski then brought the 45-year-old man to shore, but he was unable to be revived.

It is unknown what equipment the two men from Harvey were using, but Supt. Stewart emphasised the importance of keeping safe and looking at advice from local authorities while fishing from the rocks.

“If you intend to do a past-time like fishing from rocks which is considered risky, make sure you are safe, have all of the equipment with you and you listen to the locals in terms of conditions and potential risks,” he said.

Local police are conducting an investigation for the Coroner.