Summer has kicked off with a spate of drownings at New South Wales beaches.

There’s still no sign of the body of a 14-year-old boy caught in rough surf at Port Macquarie.

A 49-year-old UK national has died after she and her family got into trouble at Coffs Harbour.

And the body of an 11-year-old boy is still missing after being caught in a rip at the start of the month near Port Macquarie as well.

Surf Lifesaving New South Wales Chief Executive Steven Pearce has told Mark Levy these sorts of incidents are avoidable.

“It just magnifies the tragedy even more so close to Christmas.

“Swim at a patrolled beach and look for those two most iconic things on the sand, the red and yellow flags.”

Click PLAY below for the full interview