Search Continues for Missing Teen Luca Bennett at North Avoca Beach

The 15-year-old basketball prodigy was swept off a rock shelf on Christmas Eve, prompting a large-scale rescue operation and heartfelt tributes.

Luca Bennett, a 15-year-old rising basketball star, went missing after being swept into the sea from a rock shelf at North Avoca Beach on December 24.
Two friends who were with Luca managed to return to safety and raised the alarm, but Luca has not been found despite extensive search efforts by rescue teams.
Tributes have poured in from friends, family, and teammates, highlighting Luca’s talent, humor, and aspirations, including his participation in prestigious basketball programs.
Local surf lifesavers, marine rescue teams, and police have deployed drones, jetskis, and divers in a coordinated search, which resumed early Wednesday morning after being paused overnight.
The incident serves as a reminder of the dangers of ocean rock shelves, with local officials and community members expressing their grief and support for Luca’s family.