Search continues for missing school leaver swept out to sea off NSW coast

NSW Police have confirmed they are continuing efforts on land and water in a scaled-back capacity as the search for 18-year-old Astin Gerstl enters another day.

Astin, a school leaver who had boarded at King’s School, went missing off the NSW Mid North Coast during a post-HSC Schoolies trip. Conditions were difficult, with rough seas and poor weather slowing the search. Authorities called off the active search on Tuesday, 2 December 2025, and the operation has now shifted to recovery.

Astin disappeared on Sunday, 30 November 2025, at Little Bay Beach in Arakoon near South West Rocks. Police say he entered the water at about 4.30pm. A strong rip pulled him out, and he disappeared from view within moments. Friends who were with him raised the alarm straight away. Marine Rescue NSW vessels, Surf Life Saving crews, police and volunteers covered waters from Laggers Point to Gap Beach in the initial search.

Conditions in the first days were rough, with strong swell and poor weather affecting visibility. Police have now reduced the size of the operation but say targeted checks by land and water continue.

Astin’s parents, Amy and Mark Gerstl, and his brother Orion travelled to the Mid North Coast soon after the news reached Sydney. The family is well known in the Jewish community. Astin is the grandson of the late Supreme Court Justice Roddy Meagher and the late artist Penelope Meagher, and of Heinz Gerstl, who is active in B’nai B’rith, the Australian Jewish Historical Society and served as president of Emanuel Synagogue, and Yvonne Gerstl.

The King’s School, where Astin was a boarder in the 2025 graduating class, has extended support to his family and classmates. Acting headmaster Stephen Edwards said, “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this profoundly difficult time. The school is in contact with the family and will continue to provide support, while respecting their request for privacy.”