Complex search continues in Leak Eacham for missing man
Complex search continues in Lake Eacham for missing man
An extensive search of Lake Eacham, including sonar scans and mapping of the lake floor, has so far failed to located 56-year-old Maurice Shutter, who is believed to have drowned at the lake on Sunday November 23.
Water Police vessels, police divers, SES personnel and Parks and Wildlife Officers have conducted detailed searches of the 64 hectare lake, which in parts reaches depths of 67 metres.
Police have conducted daily searches at the lake since being notified that Mr Shutter, who is also known as Maurice Packham, was last seen around 11am attempting to cross the lake in an inflatable boat. The empty boat was found later that day floating on the lake surface.
Inspector Rolf Straatemeier from the Tablelands Patrol Group said that due to Lake Eacham’s natural environmental conditions, such as size, depth and water temperatures the search was a complex and challenging one.
“We have and continue to conduct extensive searches of the lake. This has included grid searches of the surface of the lake and surrounding rainforest. The Department of Natural Mines and Resources has completed a 3D map of the lake floor. The Dive Squad, Brisbane Water Police have conducted a detailed side-scan sonar examination of the lake.”
“As you can appreciate there is a large amount of debris on the lake floor, however we have identified six areas of interest and are currently working with other agencies to identify further specialist equipment which could assist us in our search.
“Whilst we understand that the on-going closure of Lake Eacham is impacting upon some residents, visitors and businesses, we remain committed to finding Mr Shutter and returning him to his family, who obviously are distressed at his disappearance and suspected drowning.
“I would like to personally thank the family and members of the Tablelands community for their understanding and patience during this protracted operation.”
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
