Family and friends of Damir Beganovic, 38, watched in horror as he disappeared underwater at Wyangala Dam near Cowra in the state’s central west on Friday night.

Mr Beganovic’s nine-year-old boy was kayaking 50m offshore near the Gerties camping area when a strong wind knocked the boy out of the vessel about 6pm.

Mr Beganovic, who appeared to be an able swimmer, reached his son but then went under, a police source said.

Another kayaker who was also out in the water was then able to grab the boy and bring back to safety.

Officers called off the search about 10.30pm on Friday and recovered his body at 1pm today.

Mr Beganovic is believed to be from southwest Sydney and a member of an archery club.

Members of the Maydaan Archery Club at Leppington expressed their grief online.

“Due to unforeseen circumstances and the tragic loss of one of our dearest members we will NOT be holding a shoot this Sunday as we will all be mourning our lost brother Damir Beganovic,” the statement said.

Farouk Najmeddine said “May Allah grant him paradise” and Abu Mahmoud Krayem said “God rest his soul”.