Bushland search fears
POLICE examining the disappearance of a man in dense bushland near Cooktown are keen to discount one key theory to progress their investigation.
Nambour man Ian Robertson was reported missing overnight Monday after his black 2006 Ford Falcon ute was found near Battle Camp Road.
He was last seen four days ago and was believed to have left his Sunshine Coast home up to a week ago.
Search and rescue co-ordinator Senior Sergeant Ed Lukin said concerns were held for Mr Robertson’s safety as there was no known reason why his vehicle would be in the area.
“We’re hoping he got a lift with someone,” he said.
“However, the circumstances of his disappearance have led us to believe he’s in the area and needs assistance urgently. We want to discount or verify if he has gotten a lift with someone, so we’re asking people in the Cape York area to keep an eye out on the campgrounds.
“We can’t discount whether he’s hitchhiked or got someone to pick him up.
“We believe he has a swag with him and some camping gear.”
Mr Robertson was last seen by a station owner removing property from his vehicle.
Snr Sgt Lukin said conditions in the dense bushland were hot and humid.
“We just don’t know what’s happened to this gentleman,” he said.
“We do suspect he’s still in the vicinity of his vehicle.”
He said there was no concern of foul play at this stage.
The search for Mr Robertson in the area where his car was found has involved police, the State Emergency Services and a helicopter.
Mr Robertson is described as caucasian, about 170cm in height, with a proportionate build, dark brown hair and brown eyes.
Anyone who may have seen him or his Ford Falcon is urged to contact police immediately.
Police are also seeking public help to find a missing 62-year-old man who was last seen on Sunday morning, September 20.
Kenneth Vaughan was last seen leaving his Bentley Park home in his utility in the early hours of the morning.
He is described as about 175cm tall, greying brown hair and goatee-style beard.
His vehicle is described as a white 2015 Holden Colorado Space Cab utility bearing Queensland registration 018-VNG.
If you have information , contact policelink at www.police.qld. gov.au/reporting or phone 131 444