A frantic search is in progress for a hang glider who has gone missing in a popular tourist destination, leaving authorities puzzled. The individual, a 59-year-old experienced hang glider pilot, disappeared yesterday afternoon while gliding off the New South Wales Mid North Coast in Australia, shortly after taking off from Lindeman’s Point, located around 129km south of Port Macquarie near Forster.
Another glider who took off after the missing pilot witnessed the incident and reported the disappearance around 4pm yesterday. Fortunately, the second glider landed safely after crashing into the water below.
The hang gliding location is situated near the scenic Booti Booti National Park, known for its stunning beaches and challenging hiking trails. The normally picturesque Elizabeth Beach has now become a focal point for search efforts.
Marine Rescue Forster Tuncurry, as reported by news.com.au, dispatched rescue vessel Forster 30 with a team of volunteers to search the area from Seven Mile Beach to Elizabeth Beach until late last night, with the search continuing today.
Inspector Courtney Greenslade from Marine Rescue NSW mentioned that due to adverse weather conditions, the search operation south of Forster had to be halted at around 3pm local time after more than six hours of searching. The crew faced challenges due to strong winds impeding their search efforts.
Inspector Greenslade further stated that the volunteers from Marine Rescue NSW are on standby to assist further in the search if needed by the NSW Police Marine Area Command.
Speaking to ABC News Australia, Inspector David Coyle from Manning Great Lakes Police District described the incident as unexpected, highlighting the missing individual’s experience in hang gliding. Graeme Cran, a paraglider with Mid North Coast Flyers, emphasized the inherent risks of aviation sports and the importance of preparedness for emergency situations.
If you have a story to share related to this incident, please email julia.banim@reachplc.com.