Two Men Dead, Woman Hospitalised After Never Never River Drowning
GLENIFFER, 26 January 2026 – Two men have died and a woman has been hospitalised after a drowning incident at the Never Never River in New South Wales’s Mid North Coast region. Emergency services were called to the scene at John Locke Place in Gleniffer, approximately 9 kilometres north of Bellingen, at about 6:45 pm on Sunday.
Emergency Response
Police and emergency services responded to reports of people struggling in the river. Upon arrival, they found three individuals – two men and a woman, all believed to be in their 30s – in distress. The woman was pulled from the water and treated at the scene before being transported to Coffs Harbour Health Campus in a serious condition.
The two men were also retrieved from the water but could not be revived and were pronounced dead at the scene. Police have established a crime scene as part of their investigation, and a report will be prepared for the coroner.
Key Facts and Figures
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | John Locke Place, Gleniffer, NSW |
| Distance from Bellingen | Approximately 9 km north |
| Incident Time | Approximately 6:45 pm, Sunday 26 January 2026 |
| Victims | Two men (deceased), one woman (hospitalised) |
| Emergency Services Called | Police, Ambulance, Rescue Services |
| Crime Scene Established | Yes |
| Report for Coroner | Yes |
Water Safety and River Conditions
The Never Never River is a popular swimming spot in the region, particularly during the summer months. While the river is generally considered safe for swimming, authorities have warned that conditions can change rapidly, and swimmers should always be aware of their surroundings and the water’s depth.
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of water safety, especially in natural waterways. Swimmers are urged to always swim with a friend, be aware of their own limitations, and to never swim alone or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened at the Never Never River?
Three people – two men and a woman – were swimming in the Never Never River at Gleniffer when they began to struggle. Emergency services were called, and the woman was pulled from the water and taken to hospital in a serious condition. The two men were also retrieved but could not be revived and died at the scene.
Where is Gleniffer located?
Gleniffer is a small town located approximately 9 kilometres north of Bellingen on the Mid North Coast of New South Wales.
What should I do if I see someone struggling in the water?
If you see someone struggling in the water, call triple zero (000) immediately and provide as much information as possible, including the location, the number of people involved, and any other relevant details. Do not attempt to enter the water yourself unless you are a trained and equipped lifesaver.
Is it safe to swim in the Never Never River?
While the Never Never River is generally considered safe for swimming, conditions can change rapidly, and swimmers should always be aware of their surroundings and the water’s depth. It is always recommended to swim with a friend and to be aware of your own limitations.
What are the general water safety tips for swimming in rivers?
Always swim with a friend, be aware of your own limitations, and never swim alone or under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Be aware of the water’s depth and any potential hazards, such as rocks, logs, or other debris. If you are unsure about the water’s safety, do not enter.