Just been made aware of this - far out i hope this ends well
www.abc.net.au/news/2010-07-19/search-for-missing-kite-surfer/910314?site=news
Don't understand how the police could say that the search was called off because "conditions were rough"
2.5m to 3.0m swell with light easterlies wouldn't normally be an issue. Rescue authorities go out in a lot worse.
believe me, the amount of reef and possible break zones outside of eddies, combined with a decent groundswell is a hazerdous combo. Now add darkness to the mix and you have very dangerous boating conditions.
fair call swinging.
as spot mentioned, tragedy aside...a little strange to be kitesurfing in conditions you couldnt kitesurf with. Could be assumed she was surfing rather than kitesurfing?
A quick update.
I've been involved since this morning on the search.
As you can gather there was no wind yesteday so she wasn't kiting.
Possibilities are that she went for a paddle in the bay and hasn't been seen since.
Yesterday the swell was cranking and hole and passage were closing out, which means lots of water surging through the reef passages.
The search is continuing with all possible resources and we are all hoping for a good outcome.
There is..
Theres a dead whale floating around north of Lano but anything is possible.
The kite thing came about because she kites but not yesterday, it was sunny, offshore and cranking swell. The media has jumped on the kite story because it was mentioned that she kites.
The search is intensifying tomorrow and Lano is in shock. We are all still hoping for a good outcome.
Oh dear,
Best hope is that she died as peacefully as possible and there was no interferance.
Always a good idea to buddy up in water sports - specially this time of year.
Play safe all.
Hope the fam and friends are ok.
West online is reporting that she was found wearing diving gear, no suspicious circumstances.
So presumably she either drowned or shark attack.
Very sad.
Condolences to all who knew her.
Dave
Just had a get together on the point for Andrea. The sun was setting and our local dolphins swam through while we saluted the passing of a gentle ocean soul. Peace to all and support for Tom.. RIP....
shocking news.
Was at the point on and off all morning, swell was pumping and there was a real buzz around - sun shining big swell - all was well in everyones world.
Such a terrible way to end a perfect day.
Condolences to all the friends, family and community at Lano our thoughts are with you all.