Man Drowns at Wooli Beach Saving Children

A man has died after drowning at Wooli Beach, north of Coffs Harbour on Boxing Day.

Police, SES and several NSW Ambulances were called to the scene about 75 metres north of the sea wall at Wooli around 1pm.

According to witnesses, a group of people ran into trouble in the water.  Police have been told two girls were experiencing difficulties in the water when the man attempted to assist them.

Surf Lifesavers rescued the children, with the man aged in his 60's pulled from the water unresponsive.

NSW Ambulance Paramedics worked on the man for almost an hour to revive him, however the man passed away.

The Westpac Rescue Helicopter was tasked to Wooli, however after circling numerous times, was stood down near the Bowling Club.

Wooli Beach was closed while Police from the Coffs Clarence LAC prepare a report for the coroner.

PHOTOS: Nikki Voss