An urgent search is underway for a retired Queensland couple who mysteriously vanished during what should have been a routine road trip to New South Wales.
Vynette and Raymond Kehlet, aged 77 and 81 respectively, were last seen leaving their Gold Coast home on Thursday morning. The elderly pair told family they were driving to Tenterfield in northern NSW - a journey they've made countless times before.
Disappearance Timeline
Thursday 6am: The Kehlets depart their Gold Coast residence in their distinctive white 2010 Mitsubishi Pajero (registration 966 WKB).
Thursday 11am: Last confirmed sighting at a service station near their home. CCTV shows them purchasing snacks and fuel.
Friday evening: Concerned family members report the couple missing after failing to make contact for over 36 hours.
Police Appeal for Information
Queensland Police have launched a coordinated search operation with NSW authorities, focusing on the 200km route between the Gold Coast and Tenterfield.
"This is completely out of character," said Detective Inspector Mark Thompson. "They're experienced travellers who know this route well. We're treating their disappearance as highly suspicious."
Investigators are particularly interested in dashcam footage from drivers who travelled along the Mount Lindesay Highway between Thursday morning and Friday afternoon.
Family's Emotional Plea
The couple's daughter, Margaret Kehlet, fought back tears as she described her parents as "meticulous planners who always check in".
"Mum would never go this long without calling," Margaret told reporters. "If anyone saw their white Pajero or noticed anything unusual, please come forward."
The family has confirmed the Kehlets didn't have any medical conditions that might explain their disappearance, nor were they experiencing financial difficulties.
Search Efforts Intensify
Police helicopters have been scanning the rugged border region while ground teams comb roadside rest areas. The couple's bank accounts and mobile phones haven't been accessed since Thursday morning.
Authorities are urging residents in both states to check their properties, particularly rural landholders who might have unused sheds or remote tracks where a vehicle could be concealed.
Anyone with information should contact Crime Stoppers immediately on 1800 333 000.
