The search was suspended after two full days spent looking from above, atop, and below the water’s surface, but on Monday a report of a washed-up body revives Marine Rescue’s activity.

There is no body. The suspect object is just a log.

And so it continues – the mystery of the capsized, unmanned kayak, laden with properly rigged fishing gear and last seen – about 2.30am Saturday – with its headlight-wearing and now disappeared fisher safely aboard. 

The overturned vessel perplexes authorities. 

It was found just east of the Windang Bridge, near the lake opening and the beginning of a deep channel, 50-100 metres wide, known for its strong pull.

That night, police visited area car parks in search of an unclaimed car that could lead them to a missing fisher. They found nothing unusual. 

On Monday their search spread to area convenience stores.

A plastic bag was found aboard the kayak, with food inside suggesting a recent purchase, said Lake Illawarra police inspector Paul Allman.

“There was a 7-11 bag on the kayak so we’re making some inquiries with local 7-11 stores,” he said. 

“Today we’re also going to review some CCTV footage from businesses to see if a male has been in on foot in that area. 

“We’ve just got to continue to search and act in good faith on the grounds that there may be someone out there.” 

No one has reported a missing person who could immediately be matched to the man seen on the kayak. 

The kayak’s serial number and missing persons registers are providing police with other lines of inquiry.

Police will seek leads from kayak wholesalers. 

They remain hopeful someone will recognise a picture of the capsized vessel and lead them to its owner.  

“It would just be good if someone came forward and said, ‘that’s my neighbour’,” Insp Allman said. 

Meantime the lake is still and silent. For now, it gives nothing away of its secrets.