The search for a fisherman missing at sea on the Gold Coast has sadly turned to the recovery phase.
Hollywell man Ash Haigh left the Runaway Bay Marina around 6.30am on Thursday morning to go fishing for marlin and was expected to return by 5pm.
The alarm was raised by his family around 7pm when he failed to return home, sparking a major sea and air search.
Haigh’s black half cabin Pleasure Craft boat was found in waters 20 nautical miles east of Burleigh Heads around 2am on Friday, with no one onboard.
Police have also since confirmed that an inactive emergency beacon belonging to the 44-year-old was found 14 nautical miles off Ballina on Saturday afternoon.
“However, no further items or signs of life have been located,” Queensland Police said.
“The search and rescue operation has now transitioned into the recovery phase, and officers continue to be in contact with the man’s family.
“Officers continue to appeal to anyone with information regarding the man’s location or welfare to come forward”.
A GoFundMe page set up to help the missing man’s young family has so far raised close to $25,000.
“Ash a very experienced game fisher who went out on Thursday to enjoy a day on the water, with all intentions of joining his family for dinner that night,” The fundraiser reads.
“Unfortunately he has not come home and has not been able to be located after an exhausting search.
“Ash was a pillar in his fishing club, he was an incredible dad, a loving partner and just an all round top bloke.
“We know that everyone who has ever come in contact with him will remember his infectious laugh, great sense of humour and have so many good times to share.
“Losing Ash suddenly is unfathomable and we want Jess and the kids to not have the extra stress that comes with losing the main financial provider while they navigate this time.”
