A tragic Australia Day long weekend unfolded as two men lost their lives in a river, and a pregnant woman was rushed to the hospital in critical condition. The incident occurred on the Mid North Coast of New South Wales, Australia, on January 25, 2026. Emergency services were dispatched to John Locke Place at Gleniffer around 6:45 p.m. on Sunday after reports of a group struggling to swim in the Never Never River.
The two men, estimated to be in their 30s, were pulled from the river but tragically could not be revived, passing away at the scene. A pregnant woman, also in her 30s, was transported to the Coffs Harbour Health Campus for emergency medical care. NSW Ambulance confirmed her critical condition.
NSW Police have established a crime scene as part of the ongoing investigation, and a report will be prepared for the Coroner. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with water activities, especially during the Australia Day long weekend, a time often marked by celebrations and increased outdoor activities.