Following an automated Triple Zero (000) alert from an apple watch near Mount Stuart yesterday, a search and rescue operation has entered its second day.
The alert indicated a crash impact was received just before 2pm within dense bushland behind the Australian Defence Force Lavarack Barracks, within a 1km radius of the top of Mt Stuart.
Police immediately conducted aerial and surface surveillance of the area, with the assistance of ADF personnel without result.
Checks of hikers and mountain bike riders within Mt Stuart were also conducted, including vehicles within the carpark, with all people accounted for.
A search party of fourteen State Emergency Service volunteers and police reached the latitude and longitude of the event just after midday today and have begun a search of thick and rugged country-side.
Police are appealing for locals and visitors alike to come forward with information that could assist.
Townsville District Duty Officer, Acting Senior Sergeant Bateman said every piece of information counted.
‘Perhaps a colleague may have told you they’d set out on a remote adventure, or your watch may have come off when you were out that way – we’ve mobilised and are treating this as an emergency situation until proven otherwise,’ Acting Senior Sergeant Batement said
‘If you were at Mt Stuart and surrounds yesterday, check your watch or device to ensure it hasn’t inadvertently activated and contact us if it has.
‘Police are also checking missing person reports and are in close contact with Apple, however the device was not registered so inquiries have been limited.
‘The search party will remain at the site until nightfall. Residents are urged not to attend the site.’
