Workmates of a fisherman lost at sea off Queensland’s western cape are braving strong winds to continue the search for their missing colleague.
The 27-year-old Japanese national went overboard from a prawn trawler about 16 nautical miles south-west of Weipa at about 4:20am on Wednesday.
He was last seen wearing an orange high-visibility shirt and thongs.
Police suspended the official search late on Thursday after the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) dismissed planes and helicopters from the area.
At its height, the search included three helicopters, two jets, charter boats, 12 fishing boats, and Weipa Volunteer Marine Rescue.
The search for the missing fisherman has included multiple helicopters, jets and boats. (Babcock Australasia: Simon Casson)
Hopes of finding the man alive were dashed when the AMSA confirmed that “time frames for survival [had] expired”.
Austral Fisheries general manager Andy Prendergast said six of his company’s boats were still searching despite a strong wind warning.
“This is a deeply tragic outcome for his family, his shipmates, and the broader industry,” he said.
“Austral is maintaining close contact with the crew member’s family and is assisting with arrangements to bring them from Japan to Cairns.”
Andy Prendergast has been assisting the investigations into the missing fisherman. (ABC Rural: Sophie Johnson)
Mr Prendergast said the search had been a “tremendous, coordinated response from land, sea, and air”.
He said Austral was supporting investigations by police and the AMSA.
Cairns Japanese Consul Shingo Higashimoto thanked search agencies and volunteers for their help.Â
“Since this incident occurred, my office has been providing support to the family of the missing individual,” he said.
“Our thoughts are with them at this difficult time.
“I personally hope for the swift recovery of the missing young man.”
Police will prepare a report for the coroner.