The search for a man missing in floodwaters near Bretti Reserve in New South Wales will resume today. Emergency services were alerted last night after the Barnard River overflowed its banks around 10pm, affecting areas near Thunderbolts Way, approximately 100 kilometres west of Taree. Reports indicate that an elderly man, while attempting to cross a causeway, lost control of his SUV and caravan, which were subsequently swept away by the flooding.
Despite extensive overnight search operations involving the State Emergency Service (SES), PolAir, and the NSW Rural Fire Service, both the man and his vehicle remain unlocated. Meanwhile, approximately 22 campers who were also affected by the rapidly rising water became stranded at the campsite. Although air crews were dispatched to evacuate them, the campers opted to stay, as advised by police.
As conditions begin to improve and waters recede, the search for the missing man will continue. Authorities have reiterated warnings against driving through flooded areas to ensure public safety.