62-year-old who fell off cargo ship

Searchers are scouring the water for a Korean-man who fell off a cargo ship about 180km north east of Bundaberg.

Seven fixed-wing aircraft are searching a 220 nautical mile radius about 40 nautical miles from the Sandy Cape for any signs of the 62-year-old man who went missing from the bulk carrier at about 4pm yesterday.

The master of the Ocean Caesar had not been seen for about two hours when the crew noticed he was missing.

The search, which is in international waters, is being conducted by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority.

“There have been no sightings which is a cause for concern,” a spokeswoman said.

Dornier began the air search last night using infra red but were not successful.

The seven aircraft have been flying in and out of Hervey Bay and are expected to return for refuelling at about midday.

The spokeswoman said the terms of the search will be reconsidered this afternoon.

The ship was heading to South Africa from Hay Point.

It is not known what cargo the Panama registered vessel was carrying.

The vessel is also searching the area.

The AGL Action Rescue Helicopter was called at about 4.20pm on Saturday afternoon to help with the search.

But the light soon faded and they had to turn back.

The rescue helicopter is on standby.

Search for sailor
called off

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