Search Operations

Search & Rescue coordination expert and retired policeman, Dr Jim Whitehead APM, discusses two cases where police were called to search for men who went missing in remote bushland.

Jim’s article about the first case – titled ‘The Perfect Storm’ – was printed in the September 2023 edition of the APJ. In that case Mr Don Marchant went missing in rugged jungle-like bushland in southern Queensland, a day before the region was struck by Tropical Cyclone Debbie.

The second case involved a hermit, Mr Victor Horne, who disappeared on a large property in Far North Queensland. Initially, only Victor's vehicles and spoilt groceries were located by the property’s owners and searchers. The article about this case – ‘A Lonely Death’ – was published in the June 2024 edition of the APJ.

Both articles are available at the APJ's website - www.apjl.com.au 

In his conversation with podcast host Jason Byrnes, Jim talks about each case and the lessons learned or reinforced for police search coordinators. Jim’s previous appearance was in episode 5.

Host: Jason Byrnes APM

Guest: Dr Jim Whitehead APM