A major search is underway on Western Australia’s south coast after a Perth woman vanished at one of the state’s most popular coastal lookouts.
Police are urging the public to come forward with information about 51-year-old Naomi Marie Duckett, who was last seen at the Gap Natural Bridge inside Torndirrup National Park near Albany late Thursday morning.
Albany Sergeant Vaughn Mackay said Ms Duckett was spotted at the site about 11.45am on April 2 and is believed to have travelled alone from the Perth metropolitan area to Albany the previous day.
Authorities have shut public access to The Gap while an extensive search continues across land and sea.
Water and ground crews, including local police, the Police Air Wing, drones and Water Police, are scouring the rugged coastline.
The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions and the City of Albany are also assisting with the operation.
“We currently have a helicopter in the area along with two watercraft,” Sergeant Mackay said.
Ms Duckett is described as about 171cm tall with a medium build. She was last seen wearing glasses, a dark-green jumper, light-coloured pants and black shoes.
“Ms Duckett’s welfare is our main priority at this time,” Sergeant Mackay said.
“We are very, very keen to hear from anyone who may have seen Ms Duckett in the area, [or] may have any information in regards to whereabouts.
“The Gap Natural Bridge is a well-visited natural tourist spot.
“There would no doubt have been people present when she certainly arrived, and certainly during the day, whilst we suspect that she may have been there in that park.”
Police are also asking anyone who may have seen Ms Duckett’s belongings, including a brown bag, to contact them urgently. Investigators believe she was not travelling by car.
Anyone with information about her possible whereabouts is urged to contact Crime Stoppers online or call 1800 333 000.
