Tasmania Police have formally suspended the search for a light plane that went missing last month from northern Tasmania with couple, Gregory Vaughan, 72, and his partner Kim Worner, 66, on board.
Police Inspector Craig Fox said extensive search operations had been conducted for the missing plane since August 2nd in Tasmania’s north, along the northern coastline, over the Furneaux islands group and extending into Bass Strait.
“Considerable search efforts have been undertaken, utilising resources such as the Tasmania Police helicopter for aerial searching and police vessels out on the water, but unfortunately the light plane, and its two occupants and their dog, have not been located,” Insp Fox said.
“A thorough review has been conducted on the Search and Rescue response, and no new search areas have been identified.
“As a result, the search for the missing light plane has been formally suspended.”
Mr Vaughan and Ms Worner, from Deloraine, were in a light sport aircraft that took off from George Town airport about 12.45pm on Saturday, August 2nd. The plane did not arrive at its destination in central NSW as scheduled, and family members raised the alarm that evening.
“Inquiries so far indicate the two people on the plane had not been in contact with anyone, or aviation authorities, since they left George Town,” Inspector Fox said.
“Flight data regarding the aircraft, and communications, will be part of the ongoing investigation.”
Inspector Fox said Tasmania Police had been in constant contact with members of the missing couple’s family and they have been informed that the search has been formally suspended.
“There is no evidence to suggest the circumstances of the missing plane are suspicious however, as with any missing persons case, police will continue to investigate any new information received in the hope of providing some closure for the family,” Insp Fox said.
Police say they will now prepare a report for the coroner.
If anyone locates any suspicious debris on land or on water, then please contact police on 131 444.
