Overview

• The 14-meter Ocean Rambler was found beached near Cape Bedford on Sept. 14 after being observed aground around 11:30 p.m. on Sept. 13.
• Its sole occupant, 62-year-old American Hartwell Champagne, had been sailing solo from Vanuatu to Australia, with his last log entry recorded on Sept. 10.
• Police conducted a land search around 8 a.m. on Sunday but did not locate the sailor.
• Investigators have not launched a broad water search because the potential search area is considered too large.
• Family in Texas expected him to reach Cairns, and officers are reviewing onboard electronics as they seek reports of any recent sightings of the vessel.