Dale Laverty: Popular Newcastle and Lake Macquarie lifeguard dead after medical episode at Nobbys beach

The council said Dale Laverty, 57, was undertaking a professional exercise at the beach when he was brought to shore by his colleagues.

Emergency services were called to the scene from 7.30am, arriving to find lifeguards performing CPR on their colleague.

Paramedics took Mr Laverty to the John Hunter Hospital.

The council confirmed on Friday afternoon that he had passed away.

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"Dale was a popular employee with City of Newcastle, and was also an employee with Lake Macquarie City Council," City of Newcastle chief executive Jeremy Bath said.

"Both councils are working with their teams who are understandably devastated by Dale's death.

"We extend our deepest sympathies to Dale's family and are offering support to employees."

Three paramedic crews and a specialist medical team attended the beach.

Ambulance NSW deputy director clinical operations Jordan Emery said paramedics faced "a difficult scene".

"When the call comes in stating a man is missing in the water, you can't help but think the worst," he said.

"Lifeguards and bystanders did an amazing job, providing resuscitation until paramedics arrived. They should be commended."

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