After a thorough rescue search operation set out this morning, the body of Matthew Barclay has been found at the northern end of Kurrawa beach, according to SurfLife Saving Australia chief executive Brett Williamson, who confirmed the report a little after 930am today.

The 14 year old lifesaver competitor - who was hand-picked by officials to be part of the Surf Life Saving Queensland's Future Champions back in 2010 according to Fairfax Media - disappeared Wednesday, around 3:45pm (AEST), while taking part in board event at Kurrawa beach.

It is quite disturbing that a similar tragedy also struck Surf Life saving back in 2010. The life of 19 year old Saxon Bird also ended at the same beach and circumstances in the Gold Coast.

200 lifesavers, three rescue choppers, jet skis, and approximately 30 inflatable boats were launched for the search this morning.

Although no cause of death has been released as of this time, Williamson told reporters that they are yet to collate and review the various reports that are coming in and are uncertain as to whether Matthew Barclay was indeed knocked off from his board or not.