A massive search of sea and land is underway for a missing solo yachtsman, lost off Victorian coast
A missing yacht has been found, but no trace of its skipper, who planned to sail solo from Queenscliff to Sydney but went missing, sparking a large scale land and sea search.
Police & Courts
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A desperate search is on for a sailor missing at sea after his yacht was discovered abandoned off Victoria’s east coast early on Sunday morning.
The major land, air and sea search is underway for the 66-year-old skipper who was attempting to sail from Queenscliff in Victoria to Sydney aboard his 35ft vessel, Affirmation.
Family members of the NSW man raised the alarm on Friday after not hearing from their relative since Wednesday March 18 when he docked in Refuge Cove in Wilsons Promontory.
They later told police he did not seem like himself during this last known contact.
Police believe the man left the cove at first light the following morning before sailing east past Lakes Entrance.
The yacht was located by emergency services 5am on Sunday near the NSW and Victorian border.
A NSW police helicopter searched the boat but found no trace of the solo skipper.
Police fear the missing man my have suffered a medical emergency or mishap on the yacht and hold grave concerns for his safety.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report to www.crimestoppers.com.au
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