Queensland Police suspend search for missing fisherman

Police have suspended a massive search and rescue operation for a fisherman after he went missing when his boat capsized.

A search and rescue operation to locate a fisherman missing for four days after his boat overturned off the coast of Queensland has been suspended.

Queensland Police Inspector Andrew Godbold said it was unlikely Scott Jaspere has survived despite a massive search.

“Using the information that we’ve got from our experts we estimated probably a-day-and-a-half to two days was about the most you could stay alive out there,” Inspector Godbold told reporters on Monday.

Emergency services were alerted when an emergency position indicating radio beacon (EPIRB) was activated about 100 nautical miles offshore east of Mackay, near Creal Reef, at 8.10pm last Thursday, April 13.

A 44-year-old Grasstree Beach man and a 43-year-old Bray Park man were rescued in the days after the boat overturned. but Mr Jaspere was missing.

“We’ve had eight to 15 boats at different times out there searching, as well as a number of aircraft and helicopters,” Inspector Godbold said.

“The huge difficulty is that it is so far off [the coast] that by the time we get planes and helicopters out there they have to turn around and come back and similar with the boats as well.”

Police have called off the search for Scott Jasperse, who has been missing since the boat he was on capsized in waters off Mackay on April 13.

Inspector Godbold said the outcome was heartbreaking for the family of the missing 41-year-old Grasstree Beach man.

“Despite the best efforts of all members of the search and rescue team, we have been unable to locate him,” Inspector Godbold said.

“I extend my deepest sympathies to his loved ones.

“While we hold serious concerns for the man’s welfare, I ask the boating community to be vigilant and to report sightings or information to police immediately.”

RACQ CQ Rescue rescued a man from the water 170km offshore from Mackay after he and two others became lost at sea when their boat capsized on April 13.

The widespread search included police and emergency services engaging in surface and aerial searches, Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR), the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) Response Centre and rescue helicopters.

One of the men was spotted by a rescue helicopter clinging to the hull of an overturned vessel on Thursday night before losing sight of him.

He was later spotted about 6am on Friday before being flown to Mackay Base Hospital.

The second man was rescued just over five hours later and also taken to hospital.

Inspector Godbold praised the commitment and determination of everyone involved in the search.

The man and two others became lost at sea when their boat capsized off the coast of Mackay in central Queensland.

“Their dedication was nothing short of commendable,” he said.

Inspector Godbold said the recent tragedy was an important reminder to boaties to be prepared and remain 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,” he said.

“Always take an EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon) and ensure all parties know where it’s located and how to activate it.

“And always wear your life jacket, as conditions change unexpectedly.”

Originally published as Queensland Police suspend search for missing fisherman