Editorial: Worst of times brings out very best in Bay people

Mauao and the beaches around it are such a big part of life in the Bay.

This famous landmark and the white, sandy beaches are a magnet for locals and visitors, somewhere we can swim, read, walk, catch up with friends, spend time with family, or even doze off on a beach towel.

And school holidays in spring and summer offer the perfect chance for families to take advantage of these natural wonders. There are thousands and thousands of us who have fond memories of days at the Mount beach.

And Shelly Beach, at the foot of Mauao, is a little gem.

But this spot will never be the same again.

The tragedy of 5-year-old Jack Dixon, swept out to sea by a rogue wave at the beach on Wednesday, has shocked the Bay and gripped the country.

It resulted in a huge search and rescue response. Surf lifesavers, police and others spent two days scouring the water and coastline from dawn until dusk for any sign of Jack before the official search was scaled back yesterday.

The searchers deserve special praise and our respect. They have given it everything - and risked their own safety in the dangerous sea in the process.

We are lucky to have such a strong, compassionate surf lifesaving community.

The overall community response has been tremendous. The Western Bay has proved it has a ton of heart.

Locals have been bringing boxes of food and cards of condolences to the family and searchers in an outpouring of grief, like those featured in yesterday's Bay of Plenty Times.

They include Mount Maunganui woman Sandra Davie, who broke down as she explained what had moved her and her three children to deliver food. She told how everyone is feeling the tragedy deeply, and that they bring their kids down to the iconic spot to play.

Her quote summed it up: "It's supposed to be all fun and sun and, in an instant, it changes everything."

Kate Barry-Piceno, who delivered muffins for the searchers and a card for the family, told of feeling helpless and wanting to help in any way she can.

The impact on young children really hits home.

Katelyn Parkes, 8, drew a message in the sand: "I hope you get found little boy" and wrote in a card to the family: "Our prayers are with you, I hope your boy is returned to you soon."

It is poignant such young children are expressing their sympathy.

People have also been showing their support by donating to the Givealittle website, with more than $29,000 in less than two days. The money is for the family and search costs.

Anyone who has lost a family member knows just how devastating it is. But few people will know of the horrific pain Jack Dixon's family is going through in losing a child.

Their grief is unimaginable.

Jack's family just want him to come home.

The official search might have been scaled back but news yesterday soon afterwards that members of the community had stepped up and were still looking is yet another example of this fine community of ours helping those in need and doing the right thing.

The Bay community is right behind Jack Dixon's family.

We all hope he is found.