Tasmania Police has reviewed the findings of Coroner, Stephen Carey, into the death of Donald Laird Campbell, on or about the 23 July 2011 in Anderson Bay, Bridport.

The Department gives careful consideration to all Coroners’ findings.

Tasmania Police regularly search for people reported as overdue from fishing trips and respond to vessels in distress, and responses vary depending on the circumstances. It is not unusual for vehicles with boat trailers to be parked at boat ramps overnight, or for several days, while boat owners are away fishing.

In the absence of a report from a relative or friend about the failure of Mr Campbell to return by a certain time, it was reasonable for the local officer not to initiate a night time search. However further enquiries should have been conducted at first light to determine whether to commence a search.

About 2:45pm the following day, police were notified of an unattended vessel on beach 5 nautical miles from Bridport. A thorough search commenced for Mr Campbell involving the Australian Maritime Search and Rescue Authority (AMSA) and Tasmania Police, covering over 142 square kilometres. Mr Campbell’s body was not found.

The Tasmania Police Manual adequately covers search and rescue activities relating to maritime matters and it is therefore deemed not necessary to develop any specific standard operating procedures.

Tasmania Police wishes to extend condolences to the family of Mr Campbell.

Donna Adams, Assistant Commissioner