Search for Missing Fisherman Ashleigh Haigh Suspended, Community Rallies Support
The extensive search for experienced fisherman Ashleigh Haigh, 44, has been suspended by authorities, leaving his family and the wider community in a state of profound concern. Mr. Haigh was reported missing on Thursday evening after failing to return from a fishing trip off the Gold Coast. His absence triggered a large-scale search operation that spanned several days and covered a vast area of ocean.
The initial discovery that heightened concerns was Mr. Haigh’s empty black half-cabin pleasure craft, found approximately 46 kilometres offshore in the early hours of Friday morning. Adding to the perplexing situation, an inactive Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) was later discovered about 25 kilometres off Ballina on Saturday. Despite these finds, no further clues or signs of Mr. Haigh emerged.
By Sunday morning, police confirmed that the search and rescue operation had transitioned into a recovery phase. Tragically, despite four days of diligent efforts, which included scouring over 1,800 square nautical miles from the Gold Coast down to the Northern Rivers region in New South Wales, the operation was suspended last night. The lack of any further items or indications of Mr. Haigh’s whereabouts has cast a pall over the efforts.
A Beloved Figure in the Fishing Community
Ashleigh Haigh is widely recognised within the fishing fraternity. He is a former president and an active member of the Gold Coast Game Fish Club. The club has been a significant source of support for Mr. Haigh’s loved ones during this incredibly challenging period. It is understood that numerous club members volunteered their time and resources, joining the search efforts in a testament to the respect and affection they hold for Mr. Haigh.
Community Rallies Behind the Family
In the face of this heartbreaking situation, friends of Mr. Haigh have launched a crowdfunding campaign on GoFundMe. The initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden on his wife, Jess, and their children, allowing them to focus on coping with the emotional turmoil. The outpouring of generosity has been remarkable, with the fundraiser surpassing $25,000 in donations within just 24 hours.
The description on the fundraising page poignantly highlights Mr. Haigh’s character and the impact of his disappearance. It states, “Ash, a very experienced game fisher, went out on Thursday to enjoy a day on the water, with all intentions of joining his family for dinner that night. Unfortunately he has not come home and has not been able to be located after an exhausting search.”
The message continues to describe him as “a pillar in his fishing club, an incredible dad, a loving partner and just an all-round top bloke.” Friends and acquaintances are encouraged to remember his “infectious laugh, great sense of humour and have so many good times to share.” The creators of the fundraiser emphasised the devastating impact of his sudden loss, noting, “Losing Ash suddenly is unfathomable and we want Jess and the kids to not have the extra stress that comes with losing the main financial provider while they navigate this time.”
Details from the Investigation
Police have maintained close contact with Mr. Haigh’s family, informing them of the suspension of the search efforts. Acting Senior Sergeant Shannon Gray provided an update on Saturday, describing Mr. Haigh’s boat as being found “generally in good condition.”
“He had a lot of marine experience,” Acting Senior Sergeant Gray remarked. “The water conditions yesterday were ideal… The boat itself is generally in good condition, there is some water in the hull, but further examination will take place.”
Further details revealed that the boat’s keys were found on a seat inside. Notably, only three of the four lifejackets believed to be on board had been located. However, authorities acknowledged that they could not “100 per cent confirm there were four,” leaving an element of uncertainty. The presence of a lifejacket would have offered a greater chance of survival if Mr. Haigh were in the water. His mobile phone has not been located, though it is presumed to have been on the boat, or possibly with him.
The search operation involved significant resources, including a rescue plane that departed from Melbourne and spent approximately five hours circling the area where the unmanned boat was discovered. Marine Rescue NSW crews had been diligently focusing their efforts on the waters stretching from the Tweed to Yamba.
Authorities continue to urge anyone with information regarding Mr. Haigh’s location or welfare to come forward and assist in their ongoing inquiries. The community remains hopeful for any news, while grappling with the uncertainty of this distressing situation.
