Former Red Betty member Bobby Barnes found dead
A desperate search for a missing Maryborough sawmill worker and former member of a popular pub band has ended in heartbreak as tributes begin to flow.
Fraser Coast
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A beloved musician, brother and father has been found dead days after his failure to return home from work prompted a missing person’s search.
Bobby Barnes, 50, a former member of popular Fraser Coast band Red Betty, was reported missing to police by his family after they were unable to contact him.
On Saturday his sister, Tracie Alexander, said Mr Barnes finished his shift at Tiaro sawmill about 12pm on Thursday and had not been seen since.
He had worked Thursday along with others at the mill in order to take Friday off and have a long weekend, she said.
Ms Alexander said police had told the family Mr Barnes, who is a father to two children, had not used his bank cards in recent days, which was of concern.
On Sunday, police confirmed Mr Barnes had been found deceased, with no suspicious circumstances.
A report will be prepared for the coroner.
Posting to Red Betty’s Facebook page, Ms Alexander shared the devastating news with friends, family and loyal fans.
“It breaks our hearts to share with you the news that Bobby is no longer with us,” the post read.
“There’s no more suffering with the hurt he was going through.
“Thank you to each and every one of you for all your support during this time, I know the love that every one of you felt for him and we appreciate each and every one of you.”
Tributes for Mr Barnes were flowing on the post with Debbie Polley sending her love to the family.
“My heart aches,” she wrote.
Ian Callender said Mr Barnes had “such a big heart”.
“I am so shocked to hear the news of this (it’s) the loss of a really amazing guy,” he wrote.
Dennis Tighe also sent his condolences to the family.
“Bobby will be missed dearly,” he wrote.
Mark Nuske said the tragic news had “really rattled my cage”.
“I loved Bobby’s gifted talents and his company was always full of laughs and joy,” he wrote.
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