UPDATE: Authorities are urgently searching for a man reported missing at Lake Hume as of 6:15 PM on December 23, 2023. Police and emergency services rushed to the scene at Table Top after receiving reports that the man, believed to be in his 60s, entered the water from a boat but did not resurface.
Two children who were on board the vessel were unharmed during the incident. Emergency responders, including the Murray River Police District, State Emergency Service (SES), and Volunteer Rescue Association (VRA), quickly launched a search operation. Despite their efforts, the man remains unaccounted for. The search resumed this morning with additional support from the Marine Area Command.
Authorities are emphasizing the importance of public safety during this critical time, urging people to avoid the area around Lake Hume. A police spokesperson stated,
“At this point in time, the person is still unaccounted for and the search is continuing.”
This incident marks yet another tragedy at Lake Hume, which has seen over 200 incidents since records began in the 1840s. Notably, Amit Rai, a 24-year-old Bhutanese national, tragically drowned in August 2023, and a Christmas incident at Noreuil Park in 2022 claimed the life of Julius “Jules” Lunanga.
The ongoing search effort highlights the urgent need for caution in water-related activities, especially during the holiday season. Authorities are committed to locating the missing man and will continue their search as conditions allow.
As more details emerge, the public is encouraged to stay tuned for updates and to share information regarding the missing person if they have any insights. The community’s support could be vital in this ongoing rescue mission.
