AUTHORITIES formally suspended the search for Ipswich Patrol Inspector Jay Notaro last Friday after he went missing earlier at a northern New South Wales beach.
The 45-year-old was last seen at Broken Head on the morning of Tuesday, March 25.
His surfboard was later discovered on the beach by a member of the public, raising concerns when he failed to report for work and could not be contacted.
His car was found in the car park, but a three-day air and land search in the Broken Head, Cape Byron and Ballina areas was unsuccessful in locating any more of his belongings.
Despite three days of intensive efforts, no further signs of Inspector Notaro were found.
At 1pm last Friday, the New South Wales Police Force announced that the official search had been called off.
Queensland Police Acting Commissioner Shane Chelepy expressed his concern for Inspector Notaro’s loved ones, and gratitude to all those involved in the search.
“This is an incredibly difficult time for our organisation, and our thoughts are with Jay’s family, friends, and colleagues as we continue to navigate this tragic situation,” Acting Commissioner Chelepy said.
“I want to sincerely thank our NSW Police counterparts and everyone who contributed to the search for their tireless commitment and professionalism under highly challenging and emotional circumstances.”
The Queensland Police Service remains in close contact with Inspector Notaro’s family and continues to provide them with support during this difficult time.
Inspector Notaro’s uncle, Phil Notaro, said in a post on social media the family was “devastated”.
“This hole in our lives will never be filled. We are heartbroken. Such a tragic accident,” he said.
“Conditions during the search have been horrendous and we can’t thank the NSW and Queensland police enough for a remarkable response.
“But we fully understand that they had to call it.
“The search was intensive. Now we wait for Mother Nature to decide if she will return him to us.”
Inspector Notaro started with Queensland police in Townsville in 2003 before he rose through the ranks to oversee a number of homicide investigations in the Gold Coast from 2015 onwards.
In 2024, the Queensland Homicide Victims’ Support Group presented him with its annual compassion in policing award for going beyond his duty for a victim’s relative.
He has also played a major role in the local water police command, and marine rescue volunteers have noted he had a keen interest in surfing.
Authorities have urged anyone with information to come forward.
