Perth man Craig Laidley missing in Bali after being swept out to sea by wave

A Perth man is missing in Bali after being swept out to sea by an “extreme” wave while saving a distressed swimmer.

Craig Laidley was walking along Balian Beach about 4.15pm on Wednesday when he heard 29-year-old Micro Stalla calling out for help.

The 56-year-old rushed into the water to save the German tourist but Laidley never made it back to shore.

Laidley was reported missing to police about three hours later at 7pm.

Police immediately launched a search, with Denpasar Search and Rescue Office head Nyoman Sidakarya confirming the search is still ongoing 24 hours later.

“Last night (Wednesday) our team tried to search for the victim by combing the mainland and today (Thursday) the Denpasar Search and Rescue Office deployed 10 people divided on land and sea,” Mr Sidakarya said.

“Information from the team at the location is that the wave conditions are extreme,” he added.

His family have appealed to the public to help find their beloved relative.

“Hello, our family is seeking assistance from the public in Bali,” Craig’s nephew posted on Facebook.

“Craig was last seen helping a male that was reportedly drowning in the ocean between Tebing Balian rocks near Balian Beach.

“He was then seen drifting back out to the ocean after saving this man’s life.”