The heartbreaking tragedy of 14-year-old Luca Bennett has left a New South Wales community in shock, as his devastated parents mourn the sudden and unimaginable loss of their “perfect son.”
Luca was swept off the rocks by a powerful wave while exploring the shoreline at a popular beach, a day that began with joy ending in sorrow. Emergency services launched a desperate search, but sadly, his body was later recovered.
Luca’s parents have shared their deep grief, expressing disbelief that such a vibrant, kind, and adventurous young boy could be gone so suddenly. As tributes pour in, the family’s pain resonates across the country, serving as a sobering reminder of nature’s unpredictability and the fragility of life.
A Joyful Day Turns Tragic
Christmas Eve took a heartbreaking turn for the family of 15-year-old Luca Bennett when the teenager was swept off the rocks by a wave at North Avoca Beach on the NSW Central Coast.
The aspiring basketballer was exploring the area with two friends when a powerful swell struck, dragging the boys into the sea. While the others managed to climb back to safety and alert emergency services, Luca did not resurface.
Multi-Agency Search Met with Harsh Conditions
Search and rescue teams responded immediately, with police, NSW Ambulance, Surf Life Saving NSW, Central Coast Council Lifeguards, and a rescue helicopter all deployed.
Crews battled challenging conditions, including three-metre swells and strong currents. Despite their relentless efforts on Christmas Day, Luca could not be located.
By Thursday morning, NSW Police confirmed that the operation had transitioned to a recovery phase, with resources scaled back following expert advice.
A Family’s Unimaginable Grief
Luca’s parents, Michelle and Jason Bennett, publicly expressed their devastation and heartfelt gratitude to those involved in the search.“Yesterday we lost our darling beloved Luca J,” his mother wrote in an emotional Facebook post.
“Everyone is doing the best they can to search for him and bring him home to us… we are so grateful. He was the most perfect son and we can’t believe it’s real.”
A Community in Mourning
The tragedy has prompted an outpouring of grief across the Central Coast. On Christmas Day, friends and locals gathered to pay tribute to the missing teen. A rock face at the beach now bears the inscription:“Luca Bennett 2009–2024. Forever 15.”Tributes continue to be shared online, celebrating Luca’s warmth, talent, and the joy he brought to those around him.
Authorities Issue Safety Warning
Inspector Benjamin Campbell of Brisbane Water Police District described the event as “very tragic” and extended his condolences to the family. He also issued a public reminder:“It’s just a timely reminder of how dangerous the rocks can be around the ocean and how everyone has to be really careful.”
Holiday Period Marred by Coastal Emergencies
The tragic loss of Luca comes amid a string of coastal incidents during the holiday season. On Christmas Day, just 15 minutes south of Avoca Beach, a man in his 30s fell several metres from a rock face at Winnie Bay in Copacabana. He was winched to safety and transported to Royal North Shore Hospital with multiple fractures.
Meanwhile, a 12-year-old boy who went missing while fishing at Warana on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast was found safe and well.
A Heartfelt Farewell
As the search shifts toward recovery, the Bennett family and their community are left to grapple with the immense sorrow of losing a beloved son. Luca’s memory lives on through the love and tributes shared by those who knew him best — a vibrant young life lost far too soon.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who was Luca Bennett?
Luca Bennett was a 15-year-old aspiring basketball player from the New South Wales Central Coast. He was known for his vibrant personality and close ties with family and friends.
What happened to Luca Bennett?
On Christmas Eve, Luca was swept off the rocks by a powerful wave at North Avoca Beach. Despite a search by rescue teams, he was unable to be found alive, and efforts shifted to recovery.
When and where did the incident occur?
The incident happened around 3pm on Christmas Eve, December 24, 2024, at North Avoca Beach on the NSW Central Coast.
Were others involved in the accident?
Yes, Luca was with two other teenagers who were also swept into the sea. Both managed to climb back onto the rocks and alert emergency services.
What rescue efforts were made?
A coordinated search was conducted involving NSW Police, Ambulance, Surf Life Saving NSW, Central Coast Council Lifeguards, a rescue helicopter, and volunteers. However, due to hazardous conditions, the search was later scaled back to recovery.
What advice do authorities give about coastal safety?
Authorities warn that coastal rock platforms can be extremely dangerous, especially with unpredictable waves and swell. They urge people to exercise extreme caution when near the ocean.
Conclusion
The tragic loss of Luca Bennett has deeply affected not only his family but the entire New South Wales Central Coast community. His sudden disappearance serves as a poignant reminder of the unpredictable dangers posed by the ocean, especially around rocky shorelines.
