Days have turned to weeks and hope is beginning to wane for the family of 27-year-old Jack McLennan, who went missing on October 4 near Ficks Crossing, Queensland. Just when it seemed like the search might yield no results, new developments have sparked renewed urgency and hope for finding him.
McLennan was last seen at approximately 8 p.m. after leaving the popular swimming and fishing spot where he had been spending time with friends. The area is about 175 kilometers northwest of the Sunshine Coast and is noted for its outdoor activities. Details surrounding his last moments remain unclear, but officials have begun piecing together clues following his disappearance.
On Friday, police reported finding troubling signs related to McLennan’s case, including a dark-coloured hat located within bushland near Murgon. The hat is believed to belong to him, prompting authorities to focus their efforts on the area surrounding it. Just a day prior, search teams stumbled upon what they suspect to be McLennan’s shoes, rekindling hope for the family and friends who are desperately waiting for news.
According to Inspector Scott Stahlhut, these discoveries indicate McLennan might not have strayed too far. “This kind of behavior is very unusual for him,” said Stahlhut, highlighting the family’s concern for his well-being. The police are now appealing for anyone who may have been camping at Ficks Crossing around the time of his disappearance to come forward with any information. They are particularly interested in speaking to another person who was spotted nearby and was driving a dark-colored vehicle with a rooftop tent.
To aid the search efforts, the police have mobilized specialist divers, ground search teams, and aerial support. They face challenges such as heavy rainfall and waterway closures, which could impede their operations, but have committed to continuing the search throughout the weekend. Up to 30 State Emergency Service personnel are also on-site to assist.
New CCTV footage has revealed McLennan just hours before he vanished. Captured around 1:30 p.m. on October 4 at a bottle shop on Lamb Street, Murgon, the footage shows him leaving with friends just before they arrived at Ficks Crossing. The search team is hopeful the evidence will help piece together his final movements before disappearing.
Local residents are being urged to check their properties, focusing especially on sheds and outbuildings, for any signs of McLennan. Authorities have installed notice boards along the Bunya Highway, encouraging drivers to report any possible sightings.
McLennan is described as being 185 cm tall, with light brown hair and brown eyes. At the time of his disappearance, he was reportedly wearing a black T-shirt and dark shorts.
This situation is not only taking its toll on law enforcement but is also deeply felt by McLennan’s family and friends, who said their hopes are pinned on each new clue. A desperate search continues, underscored by periodic updates from police seeking the public’s assistance. For them, every piece of information could mean the difference between despair and resolution.
The case remains under active investigation as family members express their gratitude to the community for support during this difficult time. They are holding on to hope, expecting the best, and praying for Jack's safe return.
