NT Police have suspended the search for a 61-year-old sailor, Bruce Edwards, who hasn’t been seen since Tuesday 12 June 2012 after setting off from the Gove Yacht Club at around 7:30 am.

His abandoned yacht ‘Roxanne’ was located by a passing vessel approximately 35 kilometres from Gove on Wednesday 13 June 2012. The yacht was located with a damaged hull and the vessel was taking on water.

Information suggests an EPIRB was onboard the yacht, however may not have been activated prior to departure.

Superintendent Michael White of the Arafura Division said local Police, Water Police, AusSAR, NT Emergency Service personnel, Daimaru Sea Rangers, Customs and community members conducted four days of extensive air, land and water searches of the area until it was determined the search would be suspended this afternoon.

“It's always a difficult decision to suspend a search, but it's become clear there is little chance of the man being located with the current conditions.

“This has been a tragic event for the family, but the dedication of those assisting in the search is to be commended.

“At this stage the search has been suspended; however, if further information comes to hand the search may be reinitiated,” Superintendent White said.

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