Police rule out foul play as search for missing Tasmanian plane enters sixth day over Bass Strait

The search for a missing light plane and its two occupants has entered its sixth day, Tasmania Police said on Thursday, August 7. The aircraft, a bright green Bristell S-LSA, took off from George Town airport at 12:45 pm AEST on Saturday,-August 2 headed for Hillston in central New South Wales, but never arrived.

The occupants are Gregory Vaughan, 72, and his partner, Kim Worner, 66, both from Deloraine. Authorities say there has been no contact with the couple or the aircraft since departure.

Search efforts continue

Tasmania Police, with assistance from the Australian Maritime Safety Authority, continues the search operation using aerial and marine resources. PolAir will conduct sweeps along the northern coastline, guided by drift modelling data.

The statement said that on Thursday, the police helicopter covered areas around Furneaux Islands, including Flinders, Cape Barren, and Chappell Islands. No signs of the plane or debris were found.

Marine search vessels, including Cape Wickham, are expected to join the operation. Police noted that marine resources had not been deployed since Tuesday due to poor conditions and the absence of new search leads.

Inspector Craig Fox confirmed there is no evidence to suggest anything suspicious about the plane’s disappearance.

The public has been urged to report any sightings of unusual debris along the northern Tasmanian coast or in the Bass Strait. Anyone with relevant information should contact Tasmania Police on 131 444.

About Bass Strait

Bass Strait is a sea channel that separates mainland Australia (Victoria) from the island state of Tasmania. It spans approximately 240 km wide at its narrowest point and is known for unpredictable weather, strong currents, and challenging flying conditions.

The strait contains numerous islands, including the Furneaux Group, which features Flinders Island, Cape Barren Island, and Chappell Island, areas that are currently being searched in the ongoing operation for the missing plane.