The family of missing Lake Macquarie fisherman Luke Smith remains hopeful he’ll still be found.
After three days, 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 continues to search for the 23-year-old, whose boat capsized at Swansea on Saturday.
About 7.50pm on 6 July, emergency services were called to Channel Street following reports of multiple people in the water after a small vessel overturned.
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.
However, Mr Smith was unaccounted for, sparking a widespread mission to locate him.
“We are deeply grateful for the overwhelming support we have received since Luke went missing on Saturday,” his family said in a statement.
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the volunteers, emergency services, boaters and members of the Lake Macquarie community who have dedicated their time and resources to the search efforts.
“Your compassion and willingness to help have provided us with strength and hope.
“As the search continues, we urge everyone to prioritise boating safety.
“It is crucial to wear life jackets and adhere to safety guidelines on the water.
“Particularly in the Swansea Channel and surrounding waters, which can be hazardous, we implore boaters to exercise caution.
“We haven’t lost hope… and we won’t give up.
“But, we ask those on the water or near the coast to keep an eye out for anything that might assist in the search.
“During this difficult time, we kindly request privacy from the media.
“We appreciate your understanding in respecting our need for space and time to focus on supporting each other and finding Luke.”
Marine Area Command and Marine Rescue will continue conducting on-water patrols throughout the week, while officers from Lake Macquarie Police District will review the land search on Wednesday morning 10 July.
Inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the incident, by detectives attached to Marine Area Command, are ongoing.
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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