Inquest into the Suspected Death of Aaron James BEVERIDGE
Deceased
Aaron James Beveridge
Demographics
47y, male
Date of death
2024-06-07
Finding date
2025-01-23
Cause of death
Unascertained - likely accidental drowning while trapped on reef (injury from reef contact also possible)
AI-generated summary
Aaron Beveridge, a 47-year-old experienced surfer, disappeared while surfing at Surfers Point, Prevelly on 7 June 2024. He became trapped on a reef when his surfboard's leg rope caught on a rock formation known locally as the 'Surgeon's Table'. Despite efforts by nearby surfers to free him and his own attempts to disconnect the leg rope (captured on surf cam footage), he was unable to escape the powerful surging water conditions. His surfboard broke free and washed ashore, but Aaron disappeared beneath the surface. An extensive multi-day search involving police, volunteers, marine rescue, divers and drones found no body. A survivability expert confirmed Aaron would have been deceased within 30 minutes given water temperature and conditions. The coroner found death occurred by accidental drowning around 4:45 pm on 7 June 2024, though the exact cause remains unascertained. Aaron was an experienced surfer who understood the inherent risks of the sport.
AI-generated summary and tagging — may contain inaccuracies; refer to original finding for legal purposes.
Contributing factors
- Leg rope caught on rock formation at reef
- Unable to disconnect leg rope despite attempts
- Powerful surging water and wave action
- Rough sea conditions (6-8 foot waves)
- Location and entrapment on reef
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