Fisherman vanishes on Murray River

Patrick Evans, thirty-nine, went missing near Tocumwal on Friday afternoon after leaving Pebbly Beach campground to fish in the Murray River.

Witness hears cries, finds empty boat

A witness heard cries for help on Friday and discovered Evans's small tinny boat circling unmanned on the water, raising the alarm immediately.

“He went to investigate shortly after and found a small tinny type of boat that was just essentially skipper-less and running around in circles on the Murray.”

Major search operation underway

The search involves the Volunteer Rescue Association, State Emergency Service, Rural Fire Service, air support from Canberra, drone teams and police divers.

Search focused on two bridges

About forty volunteers searched on Saturday with thirty to forty expected on Sunday. Police focused the search around the Newell Highway Bridge and a nearby railway bridge.

Police appeal for information

Chief Inspector Paul Huggett urged anyone who may have seen Evans or have information about his movements to contact police, noting Tocumwal is a significant tourist destination.

“We're hopeful for a positive outcome for both Patrick and his family.”