Desperate search for fisherman after he disappeared off the Sunshine Coast – as emergency crews make disheartening discovery
A desperate search has been launched for a fisherman after he went missing off the Sunshine Coast.
The man, in his 40s, was leaving Mooloolaba when his family reported him missing on Sunday afternoon after he failed to return home.
His empty boat was found on Monday morning near the northern tip of Moreton Island, about 60 miles from where he left.
A water police spokesman said the engine was running and the man’s phone and belongings were on board when search crews found the boat.
A desperate search has been launched for a fisherman after he went missing off the Sunshine Coast
Mooloolaba Coastguard Commander Lee Campbell said teams were searching an area of up to 300 square nautical miles.
He pointed out that the man was an experienced fisherman.
“That’s why the alarm bells went off when he didn’t sign out and his vehicle and trailer were in the parking lot,” Commander Campbell said.
“His partner called quite concerned about 6pm… and we got off at the water police.”
The man, in his 40s, left Mooloolaba when his family reported him missing on Sunday after he failed to return home (stock image)
The man had been on a solo fishing trip before he disappeared.
Queensland Police have launched a search mission.
Aircraft, including the LifeFlight rescue helicopter, are assisting Coast Guard volunteers and water police in the search.
“The man has not yet been located and water and air searches are continuing,” a spokesperson said.