Francis Ernest Nelson: Land search called off for missing canoeist in Dwellingup, police still searching water

A large-scale land search for a missing canoeist in Dwelligup has been suspended but police are continuing to look through waterways for the man.

Francis Ernest Nelson — also known as Frank — went missing early Saturday morning in the Nanga Brook area.

About 8.50am rangers located the 66-year-old’s canoe and paddle floating near Bob’s Crossing on the Murray River, which flows through the Dwellingup State Forest.

Mr Nelson’s car was also found parked on Murray Valley Road. He had been camping in the Nanga Brook area and was last seen leaving his campsite about 4.30am on Saturday with his canoe.

The land search was suspended at 10am on Tuesday, however, police are still continuing to search the water for Mr Nelson.

The water search is being conducted from the ground and in the air with water police, police air wing, and underwater technologies being utilised.

The Dwellingup region is known for recreational activities which use its extensive forests and waterways, such as hiking, camping, mountain biking, kayaking, and swimming.

In winter, higher water levels create fast rapids in the upper section of the Murray before it begins to recede in spring and summer.

If you have any information please call WA Police 131 444, report to your local police station, or contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via their website.