Missing Teen Surfer Darcy Deefholts Found Alive on Remote Island in Australia

A 19-year-old surfer who went missing after a surfing session off the coast of New South Wales has been found alive on a remote island, sparking a wave of relief and gratitude across the community.

On Wednesday afternoon, Darcy Deefholts, a young surfer from Grafton, did not return after heading to One Tree, Wooli, on the state’s North Coast. His father, Terry Deefholts, a real estate agent, raised the alarm on social media, expressing deep concern and fear for his son’s safety.

"HELP – I NEED BOATS, BEACH WALKERS, DRONES AND 4WDs and PLANES AT FIRST LIGHT," Terry wrote in a desperate plea. "My boy Darcy is still missing. Marine Rescue searched tonight from Bare Point to Pebbly Beach at sea. They have been stood down for the night but expect they will be back early to resume the search."

Despite the initial panic, the story took an incredible turn when Darcy was found almost 13 kilometers offshore on North Solitary Island, a remote location known for its rugged beauty and challenging conditions.

"It’s a one-in-a-million miracle," said Terry, who was overjoyed at the news. "I haven’t had the chance to talk to him yet, I’m just so over the moon." The father added that Darcy was receiving medical treatment and that he could not fathom how the teen survived such a long journey across the sea.

Terry’s Facebook post, which initially called for help, quickly gained traction, with over 1,100 shares and an outpouring of support from the community. People offered assistance, shared prayers, and expressed their joy at the news of Darcy’s safe return.

NSW Police confirmed that Darcy had left his home in Wooli around 2:30 pm on Wednesday and headed toward Wooli Beach. When he did not return, his family contacted the Coffs/Clarence Police District, expressing concern for his welfare.

Marine Rescue NSW deployed a vessel, Wooli 30, just before 10 pm on Wednesday to assist in the search. A volunteer crew was quickly assembled and the vessel was deployed to search the waters from Bare Point in the north to Freshwater Beach in the south.

After returning to base at 1 am, the crew was stood down for the night, but they were back on the water at 8 am the following day to continue the search. Marine Rescue Inspector John Murray said the volunteer crews would conduct search patterns under the direction of Marine Area Command.

The story of Darcy’s disappearance and subsequent rescue has touched many, highlighting the power of community, the importance of vigilance, and the resilience of the human spirit. As Darcy begins his recovery, the community remains united in support and gratitude.