Search for sailor lost off Flinders Island called off, hampered by weather

The desperate search for a man missing in rough seas off the Tasmanian coast has been called off, with authorities saying it’s unlikely he has survived.

Tasmania Police are searching for a sailor lost overboard east of Flinders Island. Picture: Luke Bowden

The desperate search for a sailor missing in rough seas off the east coast of Flinders Island in the Bass Strait has been called off, with authorities holding grave fears for the man.

Tasmania Police worked with the Australian Marine Safety Authority to search for the fishing crew member, a 39 year-old from the Philippines, who was reported missing about 8pm on Thursday.

After an extensive search, police said it was extremely unlikely the man could have survived, given poor weather conditions with strong winds, cool temperatures and 2m swells.

The sailor is lost at sea east of Flinders Island.

Despite efforts by the fishing vessel and emergency response aircraft crews, he is yet to be found.

“Due to the weather overnight and low water temperatures, police hold grave concerns for his welfare,” police said early on Friday.

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