What happened to Astin Gerstl at Little Bay Beach?

Astin Gerstl was swept out to sea by a rip current at Little Bay Beach during Schoolies week.

When was the search for Astin Gerstl suspended?

The search for Astin Gerstl was suspended on Tuesday, two days after he went missing.

Have any human remains been found at Little Bay Beach?

Yes, human remains were discovered by a member of the public on Friday at Little Bay Beach.

Home / Disasters and Accidents / Schoolies Tragedy: Human Remains Found After Student Swept Out to Sea

Schoolies Tragedy: Human Remains Found After Student Swept Out to Sea

5 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Human remains were discovered on Little Bay Beach, NSW.
Schoolboy Astin Gerstl went missing during Schoolies week.
The search for the missing student was suspended earlier this week.

Schoolies Tragedy: Human Remains Found After Student Swept Out to Sea

Human remains have been located at Little Bay Beach, the site where 18-year-old Astin Gerstl was tragically swept out to sea during the recent Schoolies week celebrations.

The discovery was made by a member of the public on Friday, prompting confirmation from NSW Police. The remains have since been transported for forensic examination. This development comes after the official search for the missing schoolboy was suspended on Tuesday, two days after he was caught in a rip current.

A report is now being prepared for the coroner to determine the circumstances surrounding this devastating incident. The recovery of remains marks a somber end to the search efforts for Astin Gerstl, who disappeared during the end-of-school festivities.