The search for missing man Tony Higgins, and his boat which went missing in waters off Granite Island, has been called off pending further sightings or information.
Just after 5am on Tuesday 22 September, police received a call from a man reporting his boat was taking on water near Granite Island.
The boat is the same vessel that was the subject of an extensive search earlier this month south of Port Lincoln.
Police received confirmed reports the vessel was seen anchored off Granite Island around 3pm Monday (21 September).
The search for Mr Higgins has included the assistance of Sea Rescue volunteers, the police helicopter (PolAir) and fixed wing aircraft, and a Challenger aircraft provided by AMSA (Australian Maritime Safety Authority) using infrared radar equipment.
The search continued today (Thursday 24 September) using police patrols and SAPOL’s Water Operations Unit to again focus on the coastline where debris had been located, and the area around Granite Island.
SAPOL’s fixed wing aircraft and police helicopter were unable to be used due to the unfavourable weather conditions.
Extensive search efforts covering an area of approximately 500 square kilometres located debris confirmed as belonging to the Margrel and Mr Higgins, but not the vessel or Mr Higgins.
SAPOL would like to thank all the other services for their assistance in trying conditions.
Anyone who finds any debris along the coastline is asked contact the Police Assistance Line on 131 444.
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