Man Drowns in Darling Harbour at Opening Night of Vivid Sydney

Police have recovered the body of a man who fell into Darling Harbour last night. It is believed the unidentified man in his 30s fell into the water at 11pm while watching the lights at the first night of Vivid Sydney.

After the man fell off the pier, two acquaintances jumped in the water but could not locate him. A search was launched by the Marine Area Command, Police Rescue and NSW Ambulance helicopter service, and his body was found at 1.30am.

Acting Inspector Christopher Breed says police have ruled out foul play. "It was known ... that he wasn't a proficient swimmer," Breed told the ABC this morning.

While many onlookers became aware of the events unfolding in the water, the main music and light shows from Vivid continued around the scene. The man's death undoubtedly marks a tragic opening night for the festival.

Image by James Horan.