Easter period drownings could be 'the worst' on record says Australian lifesavers

In Australia, seven people drowned in New South Wales over the Easter long weekend, marking the country's deadliest holiday period on record.

The victims include a nine-year-old boy, who became trapped between rocks at a beach on Sunday afternoon.

Surf Life Saving NSW described the weekend as "absolutely horrific," attributing the incidents to a combination of warm weather, dangerous swells, and risky behavior.

The group said it performed more than 150 rescues during the holiday period.

Authorities urged the public to swim only at patrolled beaches and to adhere to safety warnings.