Luke Smith: Heartbreaking update in search of missing Swansea Channel boatie, as his family break their silence

The family of a missing boatman who fell overboard say they “have not lost hope and will not give up hope” of finding him despite police suspending a three-day search.

Luke Smith, 23, was thrown overboard along with three mates when their small boat hit a buoy and capsized in the Swansea Channel south of Newcastle, New South Wales, shortly before 8pm on Saturday.

Three other men on board the vessel, two aged 23 and one aged 20, were able to swim to shore, where they were brought to safety by passers-by.

After three days of extensive land, sea and air searches by multiple agencies with nothing found, New South Wales police made the heartbreaking decision on Tuesday afternoon to call off the search.

Mr Smith’s heartbroken family said they had not lost hope and issued a warning to anyone conducting their own search.

“It is vital to wear life jackets and follow safety guidelines when out on the water,” authorities said in a statement from the New South Wales Police Service.

‘We urge boat owners to exercise caution, particularly in the Swansea Channel and surrounding waters, which can be dangerous.

After three days of extensive, multi-agency land, air and sea searches that turned up nothing, NSW Police made the heartbreaking decision to call off the search at 4pm on Tuesday.

“We have not lost hope and we are not giving up. We are asking everyone on the water or near the coast to be on the lookout for anything that can help in the search.”

Luke’s father, David Smith, also shared a heartbreaking message on social media.

“Lucas, my son, my boy,” he wrote.

‘There was still so much I wanted to share with you in life. Daddy will diligently guard and preserve the vast space in his heart for you to fill! When I see you again.’

The family also thanked volunteers and emergency services for their search efforts so far.

“We extend our sincere thanks to all the volunteers, emergency services, boaters and members of the Lake Macquarie community who gave their time and resources to the search efforts,” the statement said.

“Your compassion and helpfulness have given us strength and hope.”

Mr Smith’s heartbroken family said they had not lost hope and issued a safety warning to anyone attempting to conduct a search themselves.

Mr. Smith’s high school friend, Chloe Kearns, is a GoFundMe page for his family.

“Luke’s family, friends and the rest of the community searched day and night for him and brought him home,” Mrs. Kearns wrote.

But as we all know, the bills are still piling up. In these uncertain times, Luke’s family doesn’t have to worry about that.

“Thank you to everyone who can donate. If you can’t, please share and keep Luke and his family in your thoughts. Let’s get Luke home.”

So far, over $9,000 has been raised.

A New South Wales Police spokesperson confirmed the search was suspended at 4pm on Tuesday.

‘However, Marine Area Command and Marine Rescue will continue to conduct patrols on the water throughout the week, while officers from the Lake Macquarie Police District will assess the search on land early tomorrow morning,’ they added.