The family of a fisherman feared dead after a trawler capsized off the central Queensland coast is not giving up hope their loved one will be found.
“We have not given up hope, and will not give up until they are found,” the family of Eli tonks said in a statement on Thursday.
“Eli is a beloved partner, son, brother, friend and loving father of two.”
Seven men were reportedly below deck on Monday night when their vessel rolled in waters off the town of 1770.
The only known survivor, crew member Ruben McDornan, spent hours in the water, clinging onto the trawler's hull.
He was saved when a couple on a passing vessel heard his screams for help.
Mr Tonk’s fiancé Ana James has described him as fearless and full of love.
“[He] is one of the strongest, most kind-hearted people. He is a machine. Friends and family know he would not give up without a fight. Most of us continue to hold onto hope that he’s kicked back on one of the islands with a coconut in hand – because that’s the kind of guy he is. Fearless and capable of anything.”
- With AAP
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