A significant search is ongoing on the Bass Strait in North West Tasmania for an overdue vessel with three people on board.
“Significant resources are continuing to search an extensive area between Devonport and Table Cape, including Three Hammock Island, for a vessel with three people on board which failed to return from a day trip in Wynyard yesterday,” said Inspector Steve Jones.
“Multiple police vessels, two Westpac Rescue Helicopters, and a rotary aircraft and Challenger Jet from Victoria provided by AMSA, are searching an area of around 1400 square kilometres covering the North West Coast.”
The yellow and white 17ft Caribbean half cab vessel entered the water at the Wynyard boat ramp around noon yesterday for a 3-4 hour journey, but it has failed to return. Police have located the car and trailer at the boat ramp.
“The last confirmed sighting of the vessel and occupants was around 12midday yesterday at Boat Harbour. The vessel was anchored and the three occupants were sitting on the beach. The vessel then left Boat Harbour and headed towards Table Cape,” said Inspector Jones.
“There has been no EPIRB activation from the vessel, and it is believed the last transmission from the mobile phones of those onboard was around 2.35pm yesterday.”
Police would like to speak to anyone who had contact yesterday afternoon with those on board – Isaiah Dixon, Thomas Courto, and Bree-Anna Thomas, all from the North West Coast.
“As the police search continues, police ask any member of the community considering entering the water in boat to assist, to speak to police first to ensure safety and a coordinated approach.”
Anyone with information in relation to conversation with those on board yesterday afternoon or the intended movement and location of the vessel is urged to contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1800 333 000.
