GHIN GHIN, VICTORIA: The family of a missing Victorian tradie has made an emotional public appeal for help as police continue an extensive search after the 53-year-old disappeared while fishing in rural Victoria.
Shane Wilson, an experienced plasterer and outdoor enthusiast from Epping, vanished on Saturday morning while kayaking at his favourite fishing and camping spot in Ghin Ghin, near Yea, northeast of Melbourne.
Who Is Shane Wilson?
Shane Wilson, 53, worked as a plasterer for more than three decades and was well known among family and friends for his love of fishing, kayaking and the outdoors.
According to his sister, Melissa Teague, Wilson had recently developed a passion for kayak fishing and had visited the same location only a month earlier.
What Happened?
According to the family, Wilson travelled to Ghin Ghin on Saturday with his friend Paul for a fishing trip.After spending some time together, Wilson paddled away alone in his kayak while Paul remained nearby.
Moments later, Paul reportedly heard Wilson shout, followed immediately by a loud splash.
He rushed to the location where Wilson had been, but by the time he arrived, Wilson had disappeared.
Canoe Recovered During Search
Police later recovered Wilson’s canoe during the search operation, but the 53-year-old remains missing.
Emergency services have continued searching the waterways and surrounding areas throughout the weekend and into Monday, with crews covering riverbanks and nearby bushland despite difficult conditions.
What Police Are Saying
Victoria Police and emergency responders are continuing an active search for Wilson in the Ghin Ghin area.Authorities have not released any indication of foul play and are treating the incident as a missing person investigation.
Family Makes Emotional Appeal
Wilson’s sister, Melissa Teague, said the family is living through unimaginable uncertainty while hoping for a miracle.
“Until Shane is found, we are living every day in limbo,” she said.
She appealed to local farmers, landowners, fishermen and residents around Ghin Ghin and Yea to check riverbanks, waterways and their properties for any possible clues.
Remembered as a Caring Family Man
Teague described her brother as someone who always put others before himself.
“He was my big brother, my hero and one of the most caring people you could ever meet,” she said.
“He would literally give you the shirt off his back to help someone.”
She added that while Wilson enjoyed adventure and was confident on the water, he also had years of experience fishing and kayaking.
