On Saturday 27 June, a 47 year old male from Cardiff and a 43 year old male from Thornton were fishing in a 5m runabout off the Broughton Island near the inlet to Esmerelda Bay.

About 7am the boat was hit by a rogue wave and caused it to capsize throwing the 43 year old from the boat. The skipper was trapped underneath the boat for a short while before freeing himself and swimming out from underneath.

He swam to the nearby rocks before climbing up. Police, marine rescue along with Wetspac rescue responded.

The male was airlifted from the rocks by Westpac. At this time the 43 year was observed from the air.

He unfortunately did not survive the ordeal.

It was noted neither man was wearing a life jacket.