The urgent search for a missing fisherman has dramatically expanded to a second state as authorities intensify efforts to locate the beloved father and husband. Police were initially alerted after a black half-cabin pleasure craft was reported overdue from Runaway Bay Marina in the Gold Coast suburb of Hollywell around 7pm on Thursday evening.
Vessel Found Empty in Early Morning Discovery
Authorities conducted extensive searches of surrounding areas and attempted repeated radio contact before the vessel was eventually discovered empty east of Burleigh at approximately 2am on Friday morning. The search continues for the experienced fisherman, who has since been identified as 44-year-old Ash Haigh by his concerned loved ones through online appeals.
Community Support and Desperate Hopes
Friends and family have taken to social media to express their anguish and hope for his safe return. 'Everyone is praying you're found soon and well. I know you're a strong person so hanging there mate,' one friend wrote in a heartfelt message. Another stated, 'Praying for our buddy president and family man Ash Haigh he's missing at sea following his DREAM.'
Mr Haigh is the former president and current member of the Gold Coast Game Fish Club, which is providing crucial support to his family during this difficult time. It is understood that numerous club members have personally joined the extensive hunt for the missing fisherman, demonstrating the tight-knit nature of the local fishing community.
Search Operation Expands Across State Borders
On Saturday, authorities confirmed that search efforts had significantly expanded to include northern New South Wales waters, covering the coastal stretch from Byron Bay to Evans Heads. This represents a substantial widening of the operation as hopes for finding Mr Haigh remain alive.
Boat Condition and Missing Equipment
Acting Senior Sergeant Shannon Gray provided reporters with important details about the discovered vessel. 'He had a lot of marine experience,' Gray noted, adding that 'The water conditions yesterday were ideal... The boat itself is generally in good condition, there is some water in the hull but further examination will take place.'
Acting Senior Sergeant Gray revealed that the keys to the boat were found on a seat inside the cabin. Authorities have located only three of what might have been four lifejackets on board. 'But the information source can't 100 per cent confirm there were four, so at this stage we're unaware,' he explained. 'That's the best-case scenario and that will give him a better chance if he is in the water with that lifejacket on.'
Family Anguish and Search Resources
'His phone, we haven't been able to locate, but it's believed it was in the boat somewhere. He may have it on him,' Acting Senior Sergeant Gray added. 'I've spoken with his wife multiple times today – it's a very difficult time for them.'
Data from Flightware tracking services showed a rescue plane departing Melbourne just before midnight on Friday and circling the area of the unmanned boat for approximately five hours. Queensland Police have confirmed that at least one aircraft and five vessels are currently participating in the ongoing search operation, with resources now spanning two states.
The pleasure craft belonging to Mr Haigh was found in what authorities described as 'good condition' on Friday morning, adding to the mystery of his disappearance. As the search enters another critical day, marine rescue teams continue to comb the waters off both Queensland and New South Wales, hoping for any sign of the missing fisherman.
