Off-duty members of Gerringong Surf Club leapt into action on Tuesday morning to rescue a swimmer at Werri Beach.

Shortly after 8am, a man was struggling in the powerful swell at the southern end of the beach and signalled for help.

There was no official patrol on the beach at the time.

Luckily for the distressed swimmer, he was spotted by club members Mark Booth, Darryl Green and Rose Leamon who were taking part in their daily ocean swim.

Other members, Jeremy Marlton and Geoff Royal, raced to the clubhouse to collect a rescue board and additional equipment while Sue Gilbertson, a qualified nurse, was on hand to provide first aid assistance.

Darryl was first to reach the swimmer and was quickly supported by Mark and Rose, with the group safely guiding the man through the dangerous conditions and back to the beach.

"This was a fantastic team effort and highlighted the value of the training and skills of the Gerringong Surf Club members,” Booth said.

“We were able to keep him calm which ensured the rescue was managed without incident.”

The swimmer recovered well from the ordeal and was very grateful to those involved in saving him.