Police have confirmed the discovery of a fisherman’s body in Georges Bay near St Helens on Tasmania’s east coast this evening.
Authorities had been searching for 74-year-old Alan Hills, who failed to return from a fishing outing in the area this afternoon.
Tasmania Police said in a statement that while the circumstances surrounding the death would be investigated, they are not treating it as suspicious.
“Our thoughts are with the man’s family and loved ones,” police said.
Hills was last seen fishing in the Georges Bay Channel near Dora Point around 1:15pm today, prompting significant concerns for his welfare.
A search operation involving police, the rescue helicopter, volunteer State Emergency Service personnel and marine units was mobilised across the Georges Bay area after the alarm was raised.
At the time of his disappearance, Hills was wearing a black t-shirt, blue shorts and a grey broad-rim hat.
He reportedly had a blue fish bin and white esky with him when last seen.
Police have confirmed a report will be prepared for the coroner.
