A large-scale search operation for Queensland Police Inspector Jay Notaro has been suspended after he went missing while surfing at Broken Head Beach, near Byron Bay, New South Wales. The 45-year-old officer was last seen on Tuesday morning, March 25, 2025, when he ventured into the surf, with his surfboard found intact on the beach later that day.
Notaro’s disappearance raised immediate concerns when he failed to show up for work at Ipswich Police Station. His car, found in the beach carpark with his keys still inside, further fueled worries about his safety. The search began at 1 PM AEDT on Tuesday and involved an extensive operation by multiple agencies, including Police Rescue, Marine Area Command, Queensland PolAir, and Surf Life Saving NSW.
According to Tweed-Byron Detective Inspector Matt Zimmer, Notaro was a highly regarded member of the Queensland Police Service, known for his strong swimming skills and extensive surfing experience. "He's a very strong swimmer, a very experienced surfer," Zimmer noted, emphasizing that the surf conditions at the time were calm, which should have made it manageable for someone of Notaro's capabilities.
The search effort, however, faced challenges as weather conditions deteriorated over the days following his disappearance. Rescuers scoured the waters between Cape Byron and Lennox Head, utilizing drones and sonar equipment, but the search was ultimately suspended at 1 PM on Friday, March 28, 2025. Local police and Marine Area Command will continue to monitor the area in the coming days.
Inspector Notaro's family expressed their devastation over his disappearance. His uncle, Phil Notaro, shared on social media, "This hole in our lives will never be filled. We are heartbroken. Such a tragic accident." He thanked the police for their remarkable response and acknowledged the community's support during this difficult time.
Acting Queensland Police Commissioner Shane Chelepy also extended his condolences to Notaro's family, friends, and colleagues, stating, "This is an incredibly difficult time for our organisation, and our thoughts are with Jay's family as we navigate this tragic situation." He commended the efforts of all involved in the search, noting the emotional toll it has taken on the police force and the community.
The investigation into Notaro's disappearance has raised several theories, including the possibility of foul play, a surfing mishap, or a medical episode. Notaro was reportedly in Byron Bay to celebrate his 45th birthday, which had occurred just a day prior to his disappearance.
Friends and family have described Notaro as a dedicated officer who rose quickly through the ranks after joining the Queensland Police in Townsville in 2003. He was known for his involvement in high-profile cases, including the murder of bikie Greg Dufty in 2015, for which he received a 'compassion in policing' award from the Queensland Homicide Victims Support Group.
Notaro was part of a surfing circle that included Australian actor Chris Hemsworth, who was seen assisting in the search efforts after returning to Australia from a ski trip. Hemsworth, who is known for his role in the Thor franchise, was reportedly a close friend of Notaro's and had surfed with him on many occasions.
As the search was called off, the community has rallied around Notaro's family, offering support and condolences. His sister, Hayley, shared a heartfelt tribute on social media, calling him "the best uncle in the world" and expressing the family's deep sorrow over his disappearance.
The search for Inspector Notaro has drawn significant media attention, highlighting the risks faced by surfers and the unpredictability of the ocean. Despite the extensive search efforts, the family and police remain hopeful for a positive outcome as they await further developments.
As the days progress, the hope remains that answers will come, whether through the continued efforts of local authorities or by the grace of nature. The community stands united in support of Notaro's family, reflecting on the impact he has made both as a police officer and as a friend.
Inspector Notaro's case serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the bonds of community, as everyone awaits news of his fate.
