Search and rescue ends for Craig and Donna Ferguson

An extensive search operation for an elderly couple in the Cape York region has ended with police offering a timely warning for visitors to the region.

UPDATE WEDNESDAY: QUEENSLAND Police on Tuesday night confirmed missing couple Craig and Donna-Lee Ferguson were located at about 3.20pm.

The Queensland Government Air Fixed Wing aircraft spotted a vehicle that had become bogged in isolated bushland within the search area at Kowanyama.

While Ms Ferguson was found inside the couple’s four-wheel drive, Mr Ferguson was located within the search area by First Nations Traditional Owners who were assisting in the search operation. On Tuesday the couple were treated at Kowanyama Clinic for minor injuries.

Queensland Police on Tuesday night confirmed missing couple Craig and Donna-Lee Ferguson were located at about 3.20pm at Kowanyama. Picture: QPS

The extensive search operation used police, the Queensland Government Air Fixed Wing and Rescue helicopter, Kowanyama SES, rangers, Traditional Owners and local volunteers.

Inspector Peter Williamson of the Far North District Cape Patrol Group said the successful rescue of the couple was the result of thorough and timely work by all involved.

Queensland Police on Tuesday night confirmed missing couple Craig and Donna-Lee Ferguson were located at about 3.20pm at Kowanyama. Picture: QPS

“The Kowanyama community should be applauded for their co-operation and assistance with police, to help return our missing persons to safety.”

“It is also a timely reminder of how hazardous isolated areas of the cape can be, particularly during the wet season,’ Inspector Peter Williamson said.

“People travelling into the cape should ensure they’re properly equipped for the conditions, prepared for emergencies and check roads are open prior to making the decision to travel.”

EARLIER: A MAJOR search and rescue operation has begun after a couple went missing on a driving holiday in Kowanyama.

63-year-old Craig Ferguson and 59-year-old Donna-Lee Ferguson were last seen at the intersection of Shelfo and Chapman roads about 7am on Sunday morning where they were believed to have gone sight seeing.

The couple were driving a 2021 white Toyota Landcruiser with a Queensland registration, 612BS4.

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Donna-Lee Ferguson was last seen Sunday morning.

63-year-old Craig Ferguson was last seen on Sunday morning

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They were meant to check out of their Kowanyama accommodation on April 4 Monday, but failed to return on that day. Both Mr and Mrs Ferguson only have access to smart phones which do not have range in their current location.

Police and local landholders have done an extensive aerial patrol at Shelfo, Topsy and Landing roads.

The search is expected to keep going until nightfall and will start again at sunrise.

Police are urging anyone with any information to come forward. Any landholders wanting to help have been told to contact Kowanyama Police Station.

The reference number for the incident is QP2200577493.

Originally published as Search and rescue ends for Craig and Donna Ferguson