The body of a man who vanished during an evening swim with friends has been found after an hours-long search.
Police began searching for the swimmer shortly after 7pm on Monday after he disappeared from sight while swimming off a River Derwent pontoon at New Norfolk, in Tasmania’s southeast.
A rescue helicopter flew overhead while police divers and marine search and rescue crews scoured the river.
The search came to a grim end shortly after 9.40pm when the swimmer’s body was found in the water.
“Our thoughts are with the man’s family and loved ones at this difficult time,” police said in a statement.
Worried locals gathered at the water’s edge on Monday night as the search got underway, Derwent Valley Mayor Michelle Dracoulis said.
“My thoughts are with everyone affected during this anxious time,” she said.
A report will be prepared for the coroner.
