A search is currently ongoing for a hang glider who went missing in a popular tourist area, causing concern among authorities. The 59-year-old man, a skilled hang glider pilot, vanished yesterday afternoon while gliding off New South Wales’ Mid North Coast in Australia, near Forster, shortly after taking off from Lindeman’s Point, around 129km south of Port Macquarie.
The missing individual, a local resident, reportedly lost altitude during the gliding activity. Another glider who launched after him witnessed the incident, subsequently reporting the disappearance around 4 pm yesterday. Fortunately, the second glider managed to land safely after crashing into the water.
The launch site near Booti Booti National Park, known for its stunning beaches and challenging hiking trails, has now become the focus of a search operation. Marine Rescue Forster Tuncurry deployed the rescue vessel Forster 30 and a team of volunteers to search the area from Seven Mile Beach to Elizabeth Beach until late yesterday, with efforts continuing today.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Courtney Greenslade mentioned that unfavorable weather conditions forced the rescue crew to halt their search after spending over six hours scouring the waters south of Forster. They had to stand down around 3 pm due to strong winds impeding their search efforts.
Inspector Greenslade stated that Marine Rescue NSW volunteers are ready to assist further in the search if requested by the NSW Police Marine Area Command. Inspector David Coyle from Manning Great Lakes Police District described the incident as unexpected, emphasizing the missing man’s experience and the support provided to his family by friends.
Graeme Cran, a paraglider from Mid North Coast Flyers, highlighted the risks involved in aviation sports, emphasizing the importance of proper training and quick action in emergency situations. He stressed the need to exit the harness before landing in water, as hang gliders can sink.
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