Westpac Helicopter Evacuates Man Pulled Unconscious from Birubi Beach
A man has been airlifted to John Hunter Hospital in a critical condition after being pulled unconscious from the water at Birubi Beach in Port Stephens. Emergency services were called to the popular beach around 7:30 a.m. on February 25, 2026, following reports of an unresponsive individual in the water.
Emergency Response and Evacuation Details
A spokesperson for NSW Ambulance confirmed that seven crews were dispatched to the scene. Multiple emergency teams attended after a male of unknown age was discovered in the water. The man was quickly loaded into the Westpac Helicopter and transported to John Hunter Hospital, where he remains in critical condition. It is understood that the incident may have involved a medical episode while the man was surfing.
Recent Similar Incident on Far North Coast
This evacuation follows a tragic event at Kingscliff Beach on the Far North Coast just one day prior. On February 24, 2026, emergency services were alerted around 4 p.m. after a man went missing in the water. Officers from Tweed Heads Marine Area Command, assisted by the Westpac Helicopter, conducted a search and retrieved the man. Despite first aid efforts by police and assessment by NSW Ambulance paramedics, the man, believed to be in his 50s, died at the scene. Police are investigating the circumstances and will prepare a report for the Coroner.
These incidents highlight the importance of water safety and prompt emergency response in coastal areas. Authorities continue to monitor conditions and urge beachgoers to exercise caution, especially during surfing and swimming activities.
