Police Minister praises Gold Coast community search effort

Acting Police Minister Dr Anthony Lynham has thanked everyone involved in the search for five-year-old Jocelyn Lewis in Nerang on the Gold Coast.

“As a father, I can imagine how frightening and tortuous this event was for Jocelyn’s parents so I offer my thanks to everyone involved in turning what could have been a tragedy into a triumph,” Dr Lynham said.

“I also congratulate the community on banding together with Queensland Police Service and State Emergency Service volunteers to find little Jocelyn and reunite her with her family.

“About 160 QPS and SES officers, including PolAir helicopters, Water Police, the Rapid Action and Patrol Group, Mounted Unit and other police from as far away as North Brisbane District were involved in the search.

“I understand the AFL team, the Gold Coast Suns, cut their training session short to help look for Jocelyn.

“I have also seen reports Nerang RSL workers set up a sausage sizzle to help feed those searching for the young girl.

“The actions of everyone involved and the cheers of the crowd after Jocelyn was found embodied the true Australian spirit.”

QPS issued an Amber Alert Sunday evening to seek public assistance finding Jocelyn after she went missing about 4.30pm on Sunday.

She was found about 24 hours later.

ENDS       July 25, 2016

Media inquiries:  Emma McBryde  0400 622 433