A swimmer who entered the water at Maroubra Beach in Sydney’s east did not return to shore and was later found after a multi-day search.
What Happened At Maroubra Beach
Fangqi Peng, 30, was at Maroubra Beach on Sunday afternoon with three friends who were collecting sea snails along the shoreline.
He entered the water alone to try a newly purchased diving mask, telling the group he would return shortly. The others continued searching along the rocks and shoreline, but their view was partially blocked and they did not see him return.
Alarm Raised And Search Begins
When the group prepared to leave, they realised Peng had not come back. Emergency services were alerted about 4 p.m. on Sunday, 1 February, after lifesavers also noticed a swimmer enter the water and not return to shore.
The beach was cleared as a precaution while the search commenced, with helicopters and watercraft deployed during the response.
Search Conditions And Recovery
Search crews continued efforts over the following days, with sea conditions affecting operations at times. Police later confirmed a man’s body was located at about 12:20 p.m. on Tuesday, 3 February.
Formal identification processes were still to be completed at the time of reporting, but police said the body was believed to be the missing swimmer. A report will be prepared for the coroner.
Background On The Swimmer
Peng had moved to Australia from Harbin in north-eastern China more than two years ago. He was studying at university and working part-time in construction.
Friends said he regularly visited Maroubra Beach to collect sea snails and was confident in the water.
Friends’ Reaction
Friends described Peng as cheerful, easygoing and kind, and said his death had been difficult to accept because it occurred suddenly.
Published 5-Feb-2026
