On Christmas Day Luca’s friends, including those who were with him when he was swept away, gathered at the beach to honour their friends with a tribute etched onto a rock face.
“Luca Bennett 2009-2024. Forever 15,” the tribute said.
Social media has been flooded with tributes to the missing teen.
Rescuers at North Avoca Beach search for the missing boy on Wednesday.Credit: James Brickwood
“I thank God that me and my family got to be a part of your life,” one friend wrote on Instagram.
“Man I just saw you last week, it breaks my heart so much, 2025 was gonna be big … I love you, I’ll always be here for your family, no matter what.”
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One of his teammates posted a photo of them on a basketball court, writing: “I’ve had some of the best and funniest memories with you man.”
Despite the search team including Surf Life Saving, NSW Police, NSW Ambulance and the Westpac Rescue Helicopter, there has been no sighting of Luca since Christmas Eve.
“It’s a very tragic incident, and I feel for the family at this time of year. It’s just a timely reminder of how dangerous the rocks can be around the ocean and how everyone has to be really careful about what’s going on around there,” NSW Police District Inspector Benjamin Campbell said.
“I’ve spoken to [the family]. They’re obviously very upset at the moment, and they’re dealing with what they can.”
with Billie Eder, Cindy Yin and Clare Sibthorpe
