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National

Search underway for man missing in Torres Strait waters since Wednesday afternoon

The man was last seen in an outrigger canoe, leaving from Thursday Island in the Torres Strait. (Flickr: Feral Arts)

Police are searching for a 38-year-old man who went missing in Torres Strait waters on Wednesday.

The man was last seen in an outrigger canoe in the channel between Horn and Thursday Islands at 3:45pm.

His canoe was found 100 metres off the coast of Thursday Island later that afternoon.

A search was launched involving Queensland Water Police and the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA), with officers in boats and helicopters also searching nearby islands.

At about 11pm, a member of the public found the man's hat on a rock in the channel.

The search resumed at first light this morning.

Torres Strait Patrol Group Acting Inspector Andrew Pool praised the efforts of those searching for the man.

"Since the alarm was raised, the resourcefulness of the people here has shone through," he said.

"I want to thank everyone who has come forward to assist in the search.

"Every effort possible is being made to find this man and our thoughts remain with his family, friends and fellow islanders."

He said close support was being provided to the man's loved ones. 

"I know they are very appreciate of the goodwill shown by those who call this place home," Acting Inspector Pool said.

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