Gabe TUDMAN
Gabe TUDMAN
A Queensland family is heartbroken, after the frantic search for a beloved father of two missing in seas off the Queensland coast has been suspended.
A family has been left devastated after a worker on a commercial fishing vessel went missing last week with the search for him called off this week.
Gabe Tudman, 36, was lost while working on a commercial fishing vessel at Swains Reef off the coast of North Queensland on July 3, with the search suspended on July 4, a spokesman from the Queensland Police Service said.
Multiple agencies were involved in the search for the Maryborough man and his sister Jordyn announced all efforts had been suspended.
“It is with a heavy heart that I let the world know that my beautiful brother Gabe has become lost at sea, unfortunately after two days the search has been called off,” she wrote.
“As you all know, he was larger than life itself, he lit up any room he walked into and could make anyone laugh. Gabe’s infectious spirit and boundless energy will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
“He leaves behind a legacy of laughter, love, and unforgettable memories, along with his two incredible children that are a picture of all of the amazing things about him.
“He really made us so proud by turning his life around and working so hard to be the best man he could be in this last year. We are currently giving ourselves time to grieve, so please bear with us in this hard time.
The family will now wait for a coroner’s report and inquest and said they did not want to make any further formal comment.
“We would like to send our gratitude and appreciation to all of the people involved in the search, as well to the deck crew and all emergency services.”
Dozens of friends have paid tribute to Mr Tudman, sharing the lasting impact he had left on their lives.
Leonie Bell said she had a lot of fond memories with him that she would carry close to her heart.
Dale Watson said Mr Tudman had only messaged him a few weeks before to say he was working at sea.
“Never thought it would be the last time we spoke,” he said.
Nola Smith said she was sad to hear the news.
“I was always very fond of Gabe. He was special,” she wrote.