Two canyoners sucked into a whirlpool in the NSW Blue Mountains found dead
The bodies of two women who went missing while canyoning in the Blue Mountains yesterday have been recovered by police.
Emergency services were called to Wollangambe Canyon, Mount Wilson, about 2.30pm on Saturday after the women disappeared beneath the water.
Their bodies were recovered by police divers about midday on Sunday, a police statement said.
One of the victims has been identified as a serving New South Wales police officer, Senior Constable Kelly Foster, 39, who had most recently been stationed at Lithgow police station.
NSW police said the other woman was believed to be a 24-year-old international student from Chiswick. Police are waiting for confirmation that her family has been notified.
Police and ambulance crews had rushed to the scene on Saturday and helped eight other members of the group the pair were part of, who were not injured.
Witnesses have told police the younger woman was tipped off her inflatable lilo when it was swept into a whirlpool.
It is believed Foster was also swept in when she made attempts to rescue her.
Foster first joined NSW Police a decade ago. She had worked for State Crime Command as an intel officer until May last year, but most recently was stationed at Lithgow.
She took a break in her career after being diagnosed with breast cancer.
Acting Commissioner Mal Lanyon said her return to work was a testament to her strength and resilience.
“To hear reports that Kelly was trying to help another woman when she died demonstrates her commitment to the community she served and the ability to put the needs of others before her own,” he said.
“Above all, Kelly was a kind and loving daughter, sister and partner.”
The search for the women had resumed on Sunday morning with police divers joining the effort, after it was suspended about 6pm on Saturday because of poor weather.
Canyoning involves hiking, swimming, abseiling and navigating rock formations while travelling through canyons or river areas.
More rain and possible storms were forecast for the area early on Sunday.
A report will be prepared for the coroner.