Search ends for three missing off north Queensland coast

Richard Dinnen - Queensland Editor | July 20, 2022

Police have concluded search and rescue operations for three fishermen missing at sea in far north Queensland for ten days.

State Emergency Service volunteers, police, Volunteer Marine Rescue,  coastguard vessels, and aircraft have conducted extensive sea and land searches

The search covered more than 3,000 square kilometres on the first day, with the target area increasing every day since, to include from Liverpool Creek to the northern most point of Cowley Beach, including the Flying Fish point foreshore.

There’s been no sign of the three men since their boat sank on July 9. A fourth man was rescued near the North Barnard Island group the following day.

The four left Clump Point, near Mission Beach, on July 8 in a five-metre fibreglass fishing boat. Police said the vessel was swamped and sank after it developed outboard motor problems.

The four on board are a 24-year-old Mission Beach man who owns the boat, two men from Vanuatu and one from Tonga.

Inspector Brett Jenkins said there had been no sign of the three men, their vessel or any debris.

“Regrettably, despite the best efforts of all members of the search and rescue team, whose dedication was nothing short of commendable, we have been unable to locate the men.

“I extend my deepest sympathies to the men’s loved ones, who police remain in close contact with.

“Tragically, while we no longer hold out hope for a positive outcome, I ask the community to be vigilant, boaties in particular, who are asked to report any debris or information to police.”

Inspector Jenkins urged boaties to be prepared and alert to conditions.

“Before you set out, ensure you tell a responsible person about your itinerary to raise the alarm early if you come into trouble.

“Always take an EPIRB and ensure all parties know where it’s located and how to activate it, the earlier the better if need be.

“And always, always don your life jacket at sea.”