A major search for a missing man who was thrown overboard when a boat overturned at Lake Macquarie has been suspended.
Several people were thrown into the water when the small boat capsized on Saturday evening about 7.50pm.
Emergency crews were called to Channel St, Swansea about 7.50pm to find three men, two aged 23 and one aged 20, had been pulled from the water at Dobinson Dr, Swansea.
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Luke Smith, 23, remained missing, sparking a multi-agency and community search.
The other three men were treated by paramedics, with one 23-year-old taken to hospital with hypothermia.
The master of the boat, also aged 23, was taken to hospital for mandatory testing.
However, three days later, on Tuesday night, the search was suspended.
“Marine Area Command and Marine Rescue will continue conducting on-water patrols throughout the week, while officers from Lake Macquarie Police District will review the land search on Wednesday, with ongoing taskings continuing,” NSW Police said.
Smith’s family said in a statement, they were “deeply grateful for the overwhelming support” they had received since the search began.
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the volunteers, emergency services, boaters, and members of the Lake Macquarie community who have dedicated their time and resources to the search efforts,” they said.
“Your compassion and willingness to help have provided us with strength and hope.”
The family added they “haven’t lost hope” and “won’t give up”, asking those on the water or near the coast to keep an eye out for anything that might assist in the search.
Anyone with information is urged to call police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.