The police community is in mourning after the long search for one of their own ended tragically with the discovery of his body, with his death attributed to depression.
The remains of Senior Constable Scott Duff, 50, were discovered after a week-long search in the Edmonton suburb of Cairns.
Authorities said they did not consider his disappearance suspicious.
A police community Facebook group Survive The Streets Down Under said: ‘We are saddened to share that QLDPOL has lost an officer to the ‘black dog’.
The term is often used to refer to depression.
‘After a lengthy land search, involving many police and volunteers from other agencies, the officer’s body was located.
“We extend our sincere condolences to the officer’s family, friends and colleagues.”
Multiple police units were called in during the extensive search efforts in the surrounding forest including the Tactical Crime Both the team and the volunteers of the state emergency services. Drones and the Rescue 510 helicopter were also deployed.
The body of police officer Scott Duff, 50, has been found after a week-long search
Officers from Townsville and the South East also reinforced the effort.
Locals rallied to support the search effort by donating snacks and drinks to the teams.
Police thanked the public, media and SES members who supported the search.
Chief Inspector Monique Ralph said last week that Constable Duff’s disappearance seemed ‘very strange’.
“Scott is a much-loved and valued member of the Queensland Police Service and the community,” she said.
Constable Duff was last seen on Slipper Street in the Edmonton suburb of Cairns on April 8
“He is a highly respected officer in that southern corridor and has served in Edmonton, Gordonvale and beyond for the past 20 years.
“His disappearance also has implications for our local police and our community, and we have been extremely overwhelmed by the support the community has offered us.”
Police are preparing a report for the coroner but have yet to formally identify the body.
For confidential support, please call Lifeline 24-hour crisis support on 13 11 14 or Beyond blue 1300 22 4636