‘Very difficult time’: Missing fisherman identified as beloved Gold Coast father as the desperate search continues

The frantic search for a missing fisherman has been expanded to a second state as loved ones pray for the beloved father and husband’s safe return.

Police were called after a black half-cabin pleasure craft was reported overdue from Runaway Bay Marina in the Gold Coast suburb of Hollywell about 7pm on Thursday.

Authorities searched surrounding areas and attempted to make radio contact before the vessel was found empty east of Burleigh about 2am on Friday.

The search continues for the experienced fisherman, who has since been identified as 44-year-old Ash Haigh by his loved ones online.

‘Everyone is praying you’re found soon and well. I know you’re a strong person so hangin [sic] there mate,’ one friend wrote.

‘Praying for our buddy president and family man Ash Haigh he’s missing at sea following his DREAM,’ a second said.

Mr Haigh is former president and current member of Gold Coast Game Fish Club, which is supporting his loved ones while the desperate search continues.

It is understood numerous members have joined the hunt for the missing fisherman.

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A search is underway to find fisherman Ash Haigh (pictured) who went missing on Thursday

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His pleasure craft was found in ‘good condition’ on Friday

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Data from Flightware showed a rescue plane leaving Melbourne just before midnight on Friday before circling the area of the unmanned boat for about five hours

On Saturday, authorities confirmed search efforts had expanded to northern New South Wales waters, from Byron Bay to Evans Heads.

Acting Senior Sergeant Shannon Gray told reporters that Mr Haigh’s boat was found ‘generally in good condition’.

‘He had a lot of marine experience,’ he said.

‘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.’

Act Snr Sgt Gray said the keys to the boat were on a seat inside and that only three of four lifejackets on board had been located.

‘But the information source can’t 100 per cent confirm there were four, so at this stage we’re unaware,’ he said.

‘That’s the best-case scenario and that will give him a better chance if he is in the water with that lifejacket on.

‘His phone, we haven’t been able to locate, but it’s believed it was in the boat somewhere. He may have it on him.

‘I’ve spoken with his wife multiple times today – it’s a very difficult time for them.’

Data from Flightware showed a rescue plane leaving Melbourne just before midnight on Friday and circling the area of the unmanned boat for about five hours.

Queensland Police said at least one aircraft and five vessels are currently searching.