Appeal over death of 'fun-loving' well-known Sydney surfer

Police were called to a unit complex on Pittwater Road, Manly, after reports of an assault at about 5.45pm on February 27.

They found Guy Haymes, 59, with serious head injuries, who was treated at the scene before being taken to hospital.

He died in hospital on Friday, March 15.

Haymes, known to friends as “Creature”, was a high-profile surfer, well-known around the beaches in and around Sydney, from the Northern Beaches to Wollongong.

Police said he also had ties to communities in Sydney’s south, including Hurstville.

Detective Superintendent Patrick Sharkey said detectives have conducted extensive inquiries, but are now appealing for more information from members of the public.

Haymes’s brother Mark echoed the appeal, saying his family has been left in shock and without answers.

“Guy was fun-loving and sociable, and he got along with everyone,” he said.

“Our whole family is shocked and in disbelief that he had his life cut short – and in such a brutal way.

“Not knowing what happened that day and not having the answers is the hardest part.

“It was tragic and we can’t imagine that anyone would want to hurt him.

“If anyone out there has any information, please come forward as our whole family needs closure.”