Teenager dies while free diving in Queensland

A teenager has drowned off the coast of Moreton Island while free diving.

The 19-year-old man was with a group of friends who tried desperately to rescue their unconscious mate.

The man’s body was ferried to shore on a water police vessel.

“It’s a tragic time for the boys involved and their families. They’ve lost a young man that was doing something he enjoyed doing,” Water Police officer Sean Harrison said.

The four men were anchored at Hutchinson Shoal north of Cape Moreton, a popular location for spear fishing and free diving.

It is understood the men were taking turns testing their ability deep diving unassisted on a single breath.

“The boys were in about 30 metres of water which is quite deep for free diving,” Sergeant Harrison said.

“One of the boys was returning to surface where at this stage we believe he has blacked out and fallen from the grasp of his mates,” he said.

The 19-year-old victim sank to the bottom and his mates began a rescue effort but it was too late.

“The boys have done a marvellous job under the circumstances and should be commended for their bravery in doing what they’ve done to get him back to the surface,” Sergeant Harrison said.