A New South Wales police officer — who drowned while saving his son from a rip on the state's south coast — has been remembered as a "hero" who was skilled in rescue operations.
Sergeant Peter Stone died after being swept out to sea north of Bogola Head, south of Narooma on New Year's Day.
The 44-year-old had entered the water at a secluded beach to rescue his son, 14, from a strong rip just before 1:30pm.
He managed to push his son to safety but Sergeant Stone did not survive, despite the efforts of lifesavers, who performed CPR.
Sergeant Stone — who was off-duty at the time — joined the force in 2000 and was most recently attached to the Blue Mountains police command, where he performed specialist rescue operations.
New South Wales Police Commissioner Karen Webb offered her condolences to Sergeant Stone's friends and family.
"Sergeant Stone was well-liked by all those who knew him, and we are not surprised by his selfless actions," she said.
"His death is a tragic loss to the New South Wales Police Force and my thoughts are with Peter's wife, family, friends and colleagues during this terribly sad time."
Blue Mountains police commander Superintendent Don Faulds said Sergeant Stone was considered a mate and hero to his colleagues.
"Peter had dedicated his professional life to helping the community and had a real passion for rescue operations, particularly here in the rugged mountain terrain," he said.
"He was always quick — if not first — to offer his help or assistance around the command and his colleagues considered him a mate.
"As we mourn our mate, we acknowledge the loss of a husband, father and hero."
On Monday, Surf Life Saving NSW chief Steven Pearce said Sergeant Stone's actions had saved his son.
"Heroically, he was able to assist [the boy] out of danger, out of the rip, but he himself remained in the rip and submerged in front of witnesses," Mr Pearce said.
It has been the busiest summer period for lifesavers in three years, with thousands flocking to New South Wales beaches over the holidays, free of COVID-19 restrictions.
More than 1,000 rescues have been performed so far this summer, according to Surf Life Saving NSW president George Sales.
