Ongoing search and rescue operation, Whitsunday

Police and the Australian Defence Force continue to search for an Australian Army MRH-90 Taipan helicopter in waters throughout the Whitsunday Islands group.

Queensland Police Vessels Damian Ledding and Lyle Hoey, HMAS Brisbane and HMAS Adelaide are expected to be joined by other Navy vessels in the search.

Navy and Queensland police divers have commenced operations today to assist in the search and rescue operation.

Members of the pubic who locate debris are urged not to handle it and to contact police. Handling of any debris could impact on investigations or cause injury.

An exclusion zone remains in place in waters south of Hamilton Island. The exclusion zone incorporates waters from the southern tip of Long Island, east to Perseverance Island, south to Cole Island, and west to the mainland at Round Head. There is also exclusion zone of 1000 metres from any military vessel.

Map of exclusion zone

If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.

Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

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