Desperate Search for Missing Gold Coast Fisherman Intensifies Across State Borders
The search for a missing Gold Coast game-fisherman has escalated dramatically, with dozens of volunteers and authorities scouring waters across state lines in a desperate bid to locate him alive. Ash Haigh, 44, was last seen just after 6.30am on Thursday morning when his lone boat was spotted crossing past the seaway and racing out into the deep ocean.
Vessel Spotted Before Disappearance
The vessel was observed again off Main Beach, tracking right, before the father vanished without a trace. More than 48 hours later, Haigh remains missing, and his boat, the Grey Ghost, was discovered unmanned east of Burley, sparking an extensive and urgent search operation.
Community Rallies in Support
Fellow Gold Coast Game Fishing Club member Andrew Dunbar expressed deep emotion, stating, "He's a very good friend. We want him back. Just come home safe." Haigh was engaged in his passion at the time of his disappearance, trolling for marlin in Gold Coast waters. Friend Stuart Grice described him as a devoted family man who loves fishing and storytelling, known for giving back to his community.
Search Expands to New South Wales
The tight-knit game-fishing community has united, with the search covering Gold Coast waters and extending south across state lines to Ballina, Evans Head, and Yamba in NSW. A Challenger plane has been deployed, scanning the ocean from as far south as Evans Head to near Tweed in the north. Grice emphasised, "It's massive if he does get found," highlighting the critical nature of the operation.
Glimmer of Hope Amid Exhausting Conditions
Despite challenging and exhausting conditions, searchers maintain hope. One life jacket from Haigh's boat is unaccounted for, offering a glimmer of possibility that he may have stayed afloat. Dunbar added, "Hopefully signs that Ash is floating along somewhere, kicking back, and hopefully he's OK." Authorities are urging anyone on the water to remain vigilant for debris or any signs of the missing fisherman.
