Irish tourist drowns near Perth

An Irish tourist has drowned off an Australian beach in a freak swimming tragedy.

According to local reports, a 28-year-old Irishman was pulled unconscious from the bottom of the ocean near Perth in western Australia, 25 minutes after a search was launched.

It is understood the man drowned off Scarborough beach, a 20-minute drive from Perth, after he was caught in a rip yesterday.

It is believed he got into difficulty after going for a swim with three friends in a “no swimming” zone about 100m outside a safe bathing area.

Beach services co-ordinator John Snook said he was swept about 100m out to sea and was underwater for up to 25 minutes before he was spotted by rescue helicopter crews at 4.30pm Australian time (8.30am Irish time).

He was pulled to the surface by lifeguards and given CPR. Paramedics attempted to resuscitate him before he was taken to nearby Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital.

He was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital.

Mr Snook said there had been rough conditions at the beach. “He has got into difficulties and unfortunately swallowed a lot of water and sunk to the bottom.”

The Department of Foreign Affairs yesterday confirmed the man who drowned was Irish.

A spokesman said: “I can confirm that the man is from Ireland and we’re providing consular assistance to the man’s family.”