Man drowns after rescuing four children from rough waters at Tasmanian beach

A man has died while attempting to save four children caught in rough waters at a southern Tasmanian beach yesterday.

Emergency services were called to Carlton Beach about 1pm after receiving reports that a group of swimmers, including children, were struggling in the strong currents.

Surf Life Saving members were among the first on scene and rescued five people from the water.

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Paramedics performed CPR on the man before he died at the scene.

"I understand that he was actually conscious when he was put in the boat, but unfortunately, then became unconscious and CPR commenced at that point," Police Inspector Darren Latham said in a press conference.

"From there, I understand paramedics then attended and continued CPR on the beach, and unfortunately, he passed away at the scene."

The children rescued did not require medical treatment.

It's understood the group was swimming in an unpatrolled section of the beach, away from the red and yellow flags.

Long-time resident Kristine Wolf said that section was notorious for being dangerous.

"The currents can be very unpredictable, there's also lots of drop-offs. Sometimes it can look quite shallow but as you step up you are suddenly out of your depth," she said.

"There have been people who have drowned there before. It's not a safe space to be swimming.

"It's well-known not to swim in that area."

Police will prepare a report for the coroner.