Police are investigating after a partially clothed and decomposed body was found in a pond at an exclusive golf course in Sydney’s eastern suburbs.
Contractors conducting a pest inspection near the Lakes Golf Club in Eastlakes spotted the body of a man at about 9.30am on Wednesday.
The body was later retrieved by police divers and wrapped and removed in a tarpaulin from the lake on an orange flotation device.
It is believed the man may have been in the water for a number of days. He is yet to be formally identified and it is not yet known whether the death is suspicious.
“The body is believed to be that of a man who was wearing black shorts and blue sneakers,” police said in a statement.
“It is believed he may have been at the location for several days.”
A crime scene has been established and police are investigating.
Golfers continued playing on the course while the police operation was under way.
The local state MP, Ron Hoenig, is a member of the golf club and expressed his condolences for the person’s family.
“Very sad to learn about the tragedy at the Lakes Golf Club in Eastlakes as a body was found in a pond by a groundsman this morning,” he said on Facebook.
“As a proud member of the Lakes, it’s difficult for me to fathom such a terrible event happening at this beautiful and historic grounds. My heart goes out to the man’s family.”
The club describes itself as “one of Australia’s pre-eminent private clubs”.
“The golf course provides our members and their guests with a unique opportunity to play one of Australia’s most famous layouts, in a serene environment on outstandingly presented playing surfaces,” its website reads.
The club has been contacted for comment.
Anyone with information is being asked to contact the Mascot police station or Crime Stoppers.
