UPDATE: The search for missing couple Gregory Vaughan, 72, and Kim Worner, 66, has escalated dramatically as authorities identify them as the passengers aboard a light plane that vanished on July 15, 2023. The couple, from Deloraine, Tasmania, were last heard from during a flight across Bass Strait.
The plane, a distinctive green two-seater Bristell S-LSA, took off from George Town Airport at approximately 12:45 PM on Saturday, bound for Hillston Airport in New South Wales, with a stop planned in Leongatha, Victoria. Alarm bells were raised around 5:00 PM the same day when the aircraft failed to reach its destination.
Tasmania Police have confirmed that no distress call was made during the flight, which also included the couple’s dog, Molly. Inspector Nick Clark stated, “The two people on the plane have not been in contact with anyone, or aviation authorities, since they left George Town.”
An extensive search operation is currently underway, coordinated by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority, covering northern Tasmania, Bass Strait, and southern Victoria. Helicopter crews have been conducting sweeps along Tasmania’s northern coastline, but challenging weather conditions, including low clouds and rough seas, have hindered efforts.
“Search resources are significant,” Inspector Clark noted, indicating that air support from Pol Air will continue over the next two days, with plans to reassess the search based on new information. “The longer Gregory and Kim are missing, the greater the concerns are for their welfare.”
As the search continues, authorities urge anyone with information, including sightings of the plane or unusual debris, to contact Tasmania Police. The community is rallying around the families, and emotions are running high as hope remains for the safe return of the couple.
Search efforts are expected to persist into Wednesday, with family and friends anxiously awaiting updates. This developing story highlights the urgent need for any information that could assist in locating the missing pair.
Stay tuned for more updates as this situation unfolds.
