Police Continue Search for Missing Plane and Occupants

The search for a missing light plane and its two occupants, Gregory Vaughan, 72, and his partner Kim Worner, 66, has entered its sixth day.

The couple, from Deloraine, have been missing since their distinctive green Bristell S-LSA aircraft took off from George Town airport on Saturday, 2 August, at approximately 12:45. The plane was scheduled to arrive in central New South Wales.

Tasmania Police Inspector Craig Fox confirmed that aerial searches by PolAir will continue along the northern Tasmanian coastline on Friday, utilising drift data provided by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority. The police vessel Cape Wickham has also been deployed to assist with search duties.

On Thursday, the police helicopter scoured the Furneaux Island group, including Flinders, Cape Barren, and Chappell Islands, but found no sign of the plane or any debris.

Foul play is not suspected in the disappearance, according to Fox.

Family members raised the alarm on Saturday evening after the aircraft failed to arrive at its destination. Authorities have confirmed there was no distress call or contact from the plane after its departure from George Town. The search efforts have been hampered by inclement weather and rough sea conditions, which have at times prevented marine resources from being deployed.

Police are appealing to the public for any information that could assist in the search, including sightings of the aircraft or any unusual debris on land or in the water along Tasmania’s northern coastline or in Bass Strait.

The couple’s dog, Molly, was also on board the plane.

Images courtesy of Tasmania Police

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