An extensive multi-agency search for a missing spearfisherman is underway on the New South Wales Mid North Coast.
Emergency service crews were called to the Myall Lakes National Park at Seal Rocks following reports a spearfisherman had not returned from the water.
Police said a man, believed to be in his 30s, dived into the water near an area known as Skeleton Rock at about 10:20am.
Marine Rescue crews from Port Stephens and Forster have been deployed alongside NSW Police Marine Area Command vessels.
NSW Ambulance and Surf Life Saving NSW personnel, as well as the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, have been called in to assist in the search.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Glenn Sullivan said the alarm was raised when radio operators at Port Stephens received a call from a vessel reporting a diver had become separated from their diving partner.
"Conditions are favourable offshore, with a one-metre swell, light winds and good visibility," he said.
"The Marine Rescue NSW vessels will continue searching until instructed otherwise by Marine Area Command.
Forster-based scuba diving instructor Gabby Hunter says Skeleton Rocks can pose challenges.
"I wouldn't say it's wildly popular — it can have its days," she said.
Ms Hunter said the site was only accessible boat.
"It's probably on the more advanced side of the spearfishing side of things," she said.
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