A young boy on a beach trip with his family has gone missing in the surf.

Danny, a 12-year-old from Taylors Hill in Melbourne‘s northwest, disappeared from his family’s view while swimming at Number Four Beach in Venus Bay about 11.30am on Sunday.

Emergency services rushed to the scene, in Victoria’s southeast, shortly after 1pm and launched a large-scale search.

Victoria Police’s Air Wing, Water Police Squad, Coast Guard, the SES Life Saving Victoria and other beachgoers attempted to find Danny, but he has not been seen.

Danny was wearing a navy rashie and navy board shorts with a white stripe at the time of his disappearance.

He is about 170cm tall with a thin build, dark short hair and dark eyes.

‘The search will continue until last light and recommence in the morning,’ Victoria Police said in a statement.

‘Anyone who sights Danny, or has information on his whereabouts is urged to contact Wonthaggi Police Station.’

Danny (pictured) disappeared while swimming in Venus Bay with his family on Sunday
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Danny (pictured) disappeared while swimming in Venus Bay with his family on Sunday

Danny was last seen at Number Four Beach (pictured) at about 11.30am
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Danny was last seen at Number Four Beach (pictured) at about 11.30am