Tragic update after man goes missing in crocodile-infested waters in Far North Queensland

The search for a man missing for a week in crocodile-infested waters in Far North Queensland has been shifted to a mission to recover his remains.

Adam Yunkaporta was last seen leaving his home on January 30.

It’s believed he was off to go fishing at the mouth of the Ward, Watson and Archer Rivers, however he hasn’t been seen since.

Searches by a helicopter, drone, SES volunteers, wildlife rangers, police — as well as foot and boat patrols led by community members — were conducted over the last week.

The 60-year-old’s immediate family was given an update on the search, along with Aurukun Shire Council, on Wednesday, before police told the wider community the search had been moved to a “recovery phase”.

“Shortly after, police informed up to 300 community members gathered at the council chambers, that the search had moved to a recovery phase, and was being informed by gathered intelligence, and proven search and rescue techniques,” a Queensland Police spokesperson said.

“The search is continuing, locals are being urged to avoid the boat ramp as police and wildlife officers conduct searches of the river.”

Mr Yunkaporta, a First Nations man, is described as having brown eyes, short, dark hair.

He was last seen wearing black shorts and a blue fishing shirt with a picture of a barramundi on it.

Anyone with information was urged to come forward.

The search comes as Far North Queensland is lashed by floods.

Bureau of Meteorology senior meteorologist Dean Narramore earlier said areas including Emerald and Ingham had received widespread rainfalls of between 50 and 150mm over the last 24 hours, while central parts of the state had received falls of up to 100mm.

“That’s likely to continue today, with widespread showers, rain and thunderstorms,” Mr Narramore said.