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Mass search underway for a missing canoeist in Dwellingup State Forrest

Headshot of Caitlyn Rintoul
Caitlyn RintoulThe West Australian
WA Police Force - Nanga Brook Search Operation - Frank Nelson WA Police
Camera IconWA Police Force - Nanga Brook Search Operation - Frank Nelson WA Police Credit: WA Police/supplied

A large-scale search is underway for a missing canoeist in the Dwellingup, about 100km south of Perth.

Francis Ernest Nelson, 66 — also known as Frank — went missing early Saturday morning in the Nanga Brook area.

About 8.50am rangers located his canoe and paddle floating near “Bob’s Crossing” on the Murray River, which flows through the Dwellingup State Forrest.

Mr Nelson’s car was also found parked on Murray Valley Road. He had been camping in the Nanga Brook area and was last seen leaving his campsite about 4.30am on Saturday with his canoe.

WA Police are leading the search which is being conducted from the ground and in the air — with drones, mounted police, and other specialised equipment deployed as daylight fades.

Police officers from Dwellingup, Pinjarra, and Rockingham stations and five State Emergency Service (SES) crews from Australind, Rockingham-Kwinana, Armadale, Murray, and Bunbury have been called to the area.

“Despite a search of the area Mr Nelson has not been located and serious concerns are held for his safety and welfare,” a police spokesman said.

The Dwellingup region is known for recreational activities which use its extensive forests and waterways, such as hiking, camping, mountain biking, kayaking, and swimming.

In winter, higher water levels create fast rapids in the upper section of the Murray before it begins to recede in spring and summer.

If you have any information please call WA Police 131 444, report to your local police station, or contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via their website.

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