Reports of a swimmer missing of Gillards Beach in Tathra earlier this week have turned out to be a hoax.
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Police were first alerted to reports of a missing swimmer in waters off Gillards Beach in the Mimosa Rocks National Park around 5.30pm last Wednesday, August 14.
It was reported at the time that the missing man was a 42-year-old Victorian visiting the area with his twin brother who had left him at the beach and driven back to Tathra.
Upon his return he found clothes and personal belongings on the beach but no sign of his brother.
A search was initiated, coordinated by the NSW Police Marine Area Command and assisted by emergency search teams from Surf life saving clubs up and down the coast, Merimbula and Bermagui Marine Rescue, Bega Valley SES volunteers, NSW Ambulance, PolAir and the Westpac Rescue Helicopter.
The three day search continued until yesterday, Friday, August 16 when inquiries determined the report was false, and there was no missing swimmer.
Police now wish to speak with a 42-year-old man who may be able to assist with investigations into making false representations to police.
Police would like to thank the media and public for their assistance following appeals for information.
Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.