Back Beach: David Taylor, 70, missing off coast of Bunbury, public told to avoid beach as police search

An elderly swimmer has gone missing off the coast of Bunbury.

David Taylor, 70, was reported missing by his partner after failing to return from an early morning swim at Back Beach about 3.30pm on Wednesday.

“It is believed he went swimming at a beach on Ocean Drive around 5am but failed to return,” a police spokesperson said.

Acting Inspector Jeramy Davies said Mr Taylor’s partner raised the alarm he failed to meet her after his solo swim.

His car is still located in the Back Beach carpark.

“The family have told us his normal routine which is to swim in the vicinity of the surf club, up towards the lighthouse,” Act. Insp. Davies said.

“(He) usually swims a couple of kilometres.

“We believe he’s a regular and reasonably strong swimmer and we’re exploring all possibilities as to what’s happened.”

Emergency services have deployed significant resources — including Water Police, Police air wing and Bunbury Marine Rescue and police divers — to search the surrounding waters.

Act. Insp. Davies said emergency services had spent the day scouring the areas north and south of Back Beach.

He said Marine Search and Rescue were continuing their search until last light and would recommence on Friday morning, depending on weather.

“We have serious concerns for his welfare,” he said.

“This has happened sometime between 5am or 6am yesterday morning to when it was reported to us yesterday afternoon.

“We’re urging anyone who has any information to contact police immediately.”

Act. Insp. Davies asked locals to keep an eye out for Mr Taylor who is described as being caucasian, approximately 177cm tall with a medium build and short hair.

“The more eyes, the better. If we can just ask anyone that frequents that area to keep an eye out, and if they see anything that they think is relevant, please contact police immediately.”