As the search for missing Toronto man Luke Smith nears day five, the 23-year-old’s family is calling on the community to keep “eyes on the lake”.

In a plea to those living or boating, on or around Lake Macquarie, Luke’s aunt and well-known Indigenous artist Saretta Fielding is asking for assistance ahead of what she hopes will be the weekend her nephew is found.

Saretta has posted on social media that the next few days are vital.

“Help Find Luke,” she said.

“Sadly, we have not found Luke yet and understand from the rescue and police teams assisting us that there is a ‘window of opportunity’ where we would ask for everyone’s help, on and around the lake please. 

“While very difficult, we are determined to do everything we can to bring Luke home and this coming Friday to Monday (12 to 15 July) is the estimated time that Luke may surface for a short period of time. 

“If you can help by walking the shoreline near your home or getting out on a boat we thank you. 

“The police have provided the following instructions as to how best deal with any sightings: 

• Do not touch him or items of interest 

• Drop a pin in your maps 

• Keep him or items in sight 

• Call Crimestoppers or local police 

“We thank you for helping us.” 

The family’s plea comes after what has been an anxious wait.

After five days of an extensive multi-agency operation involving NSW Police Marine Area Command, Lake Macquarie Police District, PolAir, Marine Rescue, Toll Rescue Helicopter, Surf Life Saving NSW and NSW SES, the search for the 23-year-old, whose boat capsized at Swansea on Saturday, has been fruitless.

Luke was onboard a small vessel that overturned near the Swansea Channel on Saturday 6 Jult at about 7.50pm.

At the time, emergency services were called following reports of multiple people in the water.

On arrival, officers attached to Lake Macquarie Police District were told three men – aged 23, 23 and 20 – had been pulled from the water at Dobinson Drive.

Sadly, Luke was unaccounted for, sparking the widespread search.

Anyone with information, or who might see anything that can assist police, is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

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