Police have resumed the search for a missing Fernhill man this morning after a fruitless day yesterday combing wet, rugged terrain in Tarrawanna.
Bruce Ludbrook, 71, was last seen about 4pm on Tuesday walking towards the old Corrimal colliery site.
The Polair police helicopter was called yesterday morning to assist a search party of about 30 people. However, by 5pm, the search had to be suspended due to fading light.
Missing man found alive on Mt Ousley SLIDESHOW: Police launch search for missing Illawarra manThis morning police have set up a command post at the Tarrawanna soccer oval, and Polair will again sweep over the area at 11am.
Wollongong duty officer Inspector Brian Wyver said police held concerns for Mr Ludbrook's safety.
"We're very concerned," he said from the mobile command centre set up at the missing man's home.
"Last night was cold, he's been out missing since 4pm and it rained last night. The bush is fairly rugged."
Mr Ludbrook was last seen wearing black trousers, brown Redback brand boots, a brown flannelette shirt and a black sloppy joe. He is about 175cm tall, with a medium solid build and a receding hairline.
Police said Mr Ludbrook had lived in Fernhill for the past 30 years and used to work at the Bulli colliery.
Sergeant Bruce Griffin said Mr Ludbrook was a fit man for his age. "He does walk a lot - he has been known to walk as far as Bulli and Dapto," he said.
The official search involved the Polair, the dog squad, two police on trail bikes, State Emergency Service crews, the fire brigade, police rescue and the Volunteer Rescue Association.
Anyone with information about Mr Ludbrook's whereabouts can contact Wollongong police on 4226 7899 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
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