A search is currently underway for a hang glider who went missing in a popular tourist area, leaving authorities puzzled. The 59-year-old experienced hang glider pilot, who is local to the region, disappeared after losing altitude while gliding off New South Wales’ Mid North Coast in Australia. The man was last seen launching off Lindeman’s Point, located approximately 129km south of Port Macquarie, near Forster.
A fellow glider, who took off after the missing man and later crashed into the water, reported the disappearance around 4pm yesterday. Fortunately, the second glider was unharmed. The gliding location near Booti Booti National Park, known for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities, has now become the focus of search efforts.
Marine Rescue Forster Tuncurry deployed rescue vessel Forster 30 with volunteers, covering an extensive area from Seven Mile Beach to Elizabeth Beach until 8.30 pm yesterday, with the search continuing today. Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Courtney Greenslade mentioned that the search involved parallel-line searches from Lindeman Cove to Blueys Head, supported by radio operators.
Challenges arose for the rescue crew as strong winds impeded search efforts, leading them to halt the search around 3pm local time after spending over six hours searching the waters south of Forster. Inspector Greenslade stated that the crew had to return to base due to deteriorating offshore conditions but remains on standby to assist further if requested by NSW Police Marine Area Command.
Inspector David Coyle of Manning Great Lakes Police District described the incident as unexpected, noting the missing man’s expertise in hang gliding. Graeme Cran, a paraglider from Mid North Coast Flyers, emphasized the risks associated with aviation sports and the importance of preparedness for emergency situations in such activities.
