"That's the worst-case scenario as far as a recovery effort is concerned," Sgt Verzosa said.

"The sharks spotted were apparently big. I don't know how long exactly but the fishos said they were huge.

"The waters are still warm so unfortunately that's a reality of what's here."

Mr Koffa disappeared at 8.45pm after becoming caught in a rip.

Yesterday marked day three of a massive search effort, spearheaded by Police Rescue Squad officers.

Sgt Verzosa said mounted police had also been brought in to search beaches, together with police trailbike riders and lifeguard quad bikes.

"We are making every attempt to cover all bases in areas where there's a possibility of the body surfacing and the possible extraction and recovery," Sgt Verzosa said.

"With the water component, we are searching from the shore, 5km out into the open sea, and from Bellambi in the north, to Hill 60 at Port Kembla in the south."

"But there has been nothing; I really feel for the family. His mother is at Lidcombe waiting for our call."

"His sister (Veronica Chea) is still here, continuing her beachside vigil."

Sgt Verzosa said if the search was unsuccessful, the rescue effort would be reviewed tomorrow.