Popular young jockey Chris Caserta is feared to have drowned after a late night swim at a Surfers Paradise beach on Wednesday night.
According to reports Caserta entered the water with trackwork rider Amy Graham just after 10pm.
Passers-by spotted the pair struggling in the surf and were able to help the Graham to shore, but were unable to locate Caserta.
“The rescue helicopter as well as lifesavers on jet skis patrolled for some time but were unable to locate (Mr Caserta),” a Queensland Ambulance spokesperson said.
“As far as we know they went for a swim and some people on the esplanade heard a woman screaming and went in after her, but they were unable to locate him.
“The surf conditions looked OK just from the beach, but we’re aware of some significant undertows in that area from time to time which would have made it challenging for anyone out trying to rescue someone.”
Graham was taken to Gold Coast University Hospital and is in a stable condition.