Search fails to find missing woman

A search and rescue operation after a 68-year-old woman went missing from a vessel which overturned near Mabuiag Island last week was suspended on Monday.

Well-known Speech Pathologist Wendy Richardson was one of three people on board when an emergency beacon was activated around 2pm on 8 June.

A 34-year-old male and a 22-year-old female were located shortly after by the rescue helicopter, approximately three nautical miles off the southeast end of the island.

The missing woman’s family and the Queensland Police Service, acknowledged the contribution of all those involved in the search, including volunteers and the community.

Senior Police Liasion Officer Thomas Pedro TI Water Police also acknowledged families for their efforts.

“To the families on Mabuiag and Badu Island, big Eso for your assistance in the search for Wendy,” he said.

“It was a tragic incident that occurred.

“On behalf of TI Water Police we want to extend our appreciation – big Eso for your time.

“Just a kindly reminder to all communities, we want to ensure everyone is carrying safety equipment and wearing life jackets when travelling in rough weather.”

The surface and aerial search involved multiple aircraft and vessels, including the QPV William Conroy and QPV GJ Olive; however, all efforts failed to locate Ms Richardson.