(Image: Port Macquarie Lifeguards)

The search has resumed for an 11-year-old boy swept out to sea on the NSW Mid North Coast.

The child was swimming in waist-deep water with his 17-year-old brother at Lighthouse Beach, just south of Port Macquarie, when they became caught in a rip.

The older brother made it back to shore but the 11-year-old hasn’t been seen since.

Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Chief Executive Stephen Leahy says his helicopter crews are working closely with police.

“We searched ’til probably about quarter to eight last night. The search was then suspended due to fading light. That search will continue this morning and will go right through for most of the day.”

NSW Ambulance Superintendent of the Mid North Coast David Horseman spoke with Ben Fordham shortly after the boy’s disappearance.

“Everybody’s getting involved to see if we can find this young fellow and we won’t stop until we do find him.

“His mother was there. We’re helping her as much as we can as well. It’s obviously a very difficult time for her.

Listen below to NSW Ambulance Superintendent of the Mid North Coast David Horseman