A man has been airlifted to hospital with serious injuries after diving from a jetty at a popular New South Wales beach on New Year's Day.
Emergency Response at Shoal Bay
Emergency services, including police, paramedics, and the Westpac Rescue Helicopter, were called to Shoal Bay in Port Stephens shortly after 12:30pm on Thursday, January 1, 2026.
An Ambulance NSW spokesperson confirmed the incident involved a man believed to be in his 40s. The spokesperson stated the man sustained a possible neck injury after diving into the water from the jetty.
History of Incidents at Popular Spot
The jetty at Shoal Bay is a well-known jump-off point for swimmers, especially during the busy summer and Christmas-New Year period. However, it has been the site of serious injuries in the past.
In a tragic precedent, Ashley Treseder broke his neck and suffered severe spinal cord damage after diving from the same Shoal Bay pier early in the new year of 2019.
Authorities have been contacted for further information as details about the latest incident continue to emerge.
Ongoing Investigation
Police are involved in the response and subsequent investigation. The condition of the injured man and the specific circumstances leading to the dive are not yet fully known.
This serious incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with diving from height into shallow or unfamiliar water, even at locations commonly used for recreation.
