By Luke Costin in Sydney

The family of an 11-year-old boy swept into the Pacific Ocean while on a family fishing trip has not given up hope as a major search entered its third day.

Laith Alaid, his younger brothers and his father were crossing a channel at The Entrance on the NSW Central Coast on Sunday when he struck difficulty as the tide was going out.

A land, air and sea search for the Sydney boy continued for a third day on Tuesday.

“We are deeply moved by the community support we have received since Laith went missing,” his family said in a statement.

“Thank you to all the volunteers, emergency services, and members of the Central Coast community, who have selflessly dedicated their time and resources to the search efforts.

“We remain hopeful, and we ask the community to stay vigilant for anything that might assist in the search.

“During this difficult time, we kindly request privacy from the media as we support each other and focus on finding our beloved boy.”

The family was visiting from Sydney and fishing in the area when it’s believed they took a shortcut across the channel, which connects Tuggerah Lake to the ocean.

“Lots of people try and move across that channel. It is not advised though,” Inspector David Piddington told reporters on Monday.

Laith’s father, 43, tried to reach his eldest son but was unsuccessful.

Three hours of searching on Sunday and another eight on Monday – involving police, surf life savers and rescue helicopters – also found no sign of the boy.

Insp Piddington previously said the boy’s family was distraught.

Police liaison officers and extended family members were assisting with support.

“We’ll assist them as much as we can moving forward,” Insp Piddington said.

The Entrance is at the mouth of Tuggerah Lake and is a popular weekend and holiday destination about 100km north of Sydney.