What happened to Calum McCombie and Nicho Muggleton?

Calum McCombie drowned after his surfboard snapped in rough seas, and his friend Nicho Muggleton drowned while attempting to rescue him at Frankston Beach.

Were there weather warnings for Frankston Beach?

Yes, weather warnings were issued for high winds and dangerous sea conditions on the day of the tragedy, advising swimmers not to enter the water.

How did the community react to the drowning deaths?

The community expressed deep condolences to the families, with the local mayor calling it a sharp reminder of nature's power. Fundraising efforts are underway for emergency services.

Home / Disasters and Accidents / Heroic Rescue Attempt Ends in Tragedy Off Aussie Coast

Heroic Rescue Attempt Ends in Tragedy Off Aussie Coast

19 Nov, 2025

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Summary

A surfer's surfboard snapped, prompting a friend's rescue attempt.
Both men were caught in treacherous sea conditions and drowned.
Weather warnings advised against entering the water that day.

Heroic Rescue Attempt Ends in Tragedy Off Aussie Coast

A tragic incident occurred off Australia's south coast where two friends lost their lives in treacherous sea conditions. The event unfolded when Calum McCombie's surfboard snapped while he was surfing at Frankston Beach, overwhelming him in the rough waters.

His friend, Nicho Muggleton, witnessing the ordeal from Frankston pier, immediately rushed to help. However, Muggleton was also caught by the fierce waves, leaving both men at the mercy of the ocean. Emergency services, including a police helicopter, were dispatched but could not revive either man.

On the day of the incident, Victoria experienced severe weather with winds up to 80 mph, leading the Bureau of Meteorology to issue warnings for strong gusts and dangerous seas. Police described the deaths as tragic and preventable, highlighting the unsuitable conditions for any water activity.