A tragic discovery has been made following the suspension of the search for a missing swimmer along New South Wales’ Mid North Coast. Suspected human remains have been recovered, casting a somber shadow over the search efforts.

Astin Gerstl, an 18-year-old recent graduate from The King’s School in Sydney, encountered difficulties while swimming at Little Bay Beach, located near South West Rocks and Kempsey, around 4:20 p.m. on Sunday.

Despite extensive search operations conducted by police and Surf Life Saving NSW over several days, there was no sign of the young man.

Earlier today, the search took a grim turn when authorities were alerted to the beach after a passerby discovered what are believed to be human remains.

The remains have been sent for forensic analysis, and a report is being prepared for the coroner to determine the details surrounding the incident.

The King’s School has offered support for Gerstl’s graduating class and the wider community.