A surf lifesaver who lost his life in the water off the Sunshine Coast has been remembered as a “child of the ocean”.

Joe Tolano, 18, got into trouble after coming off his surfboard while out in the water with mates at Buddina Beach on Wednesday afternoon.

After failing to return to shore a multi-day search commenced however Tolano’s body was found on Friday evening.

Following the tragic discovery his family released a statement saying they were comforted by the fact the teenager died doing what he loved alongside his friends.

“Joe was a child of the ocean and he absolutely loved nippers. His body was small but his heart huge,” parents Glenn and Clare as well as sister Abbie said.

“He was chasing his dream of being an Ironman. We have lost him doing what he loved surrounded by some of his best mates, and that fact helps us carry this unimaginable pain.

“We feel grateful for the love and support that has been wrapped around us by our friends, family and the surf clubs in which Joe grew up.

“We are sincerely appreciative of the efforts of Surf Life Saving Queensland (SLSQ), emergency services and volunteers who have made it possible to have him back with us.”

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In a post on Instagram his sister Abbie remembered her brother as her “biggest supporter and inspiration”.

“The worst things happen to the best people. Just a kid who frothed Clubbies and worked his ass off at it. Doing what he loved catching waves with his best friends,” she wrote.

“You had a huge heart Joey and it has showed in all the people showing up for you mate.

“I’ll see you again soon JT rest easy and hope there are endless barrels up there for you.”

Tolano, a much-loved member of the Met Caloundra Surf Life Saving Club, was due to take part in a club training session that same afternoon.

Club President Brett Magnussen said Tolano had joined only last year after many years at Sunshine Beach Surf Life Saving Club but quickly became an integral member.

“He was a passionate young lifesaver, who loved patrolling the beach and keeping people safe,” Magnussen said.

“He brought great energy to training and competition, and he was incredibly well regarded not just within our club, but across the Sunshine Coast surf lifesaving community.

“This is an incredibly difficult time for our members, particularly the young people who trained and competed alongside Joe. Our entire club is heartbroken, and our thoughts are firmly with Joe’s family and friends.”

There were extensive searches for Tolano over three days involving PolAir, a helicopter, jet skis, inflatable dinghies and Coastguard vessels.

Police said a report would be prepared for the coroner.