Debris has been found as the search continues for a helicopter that disappeared off the coast of Nelson Bay in NSW.
Police have identified what they believe to be a debris field at Tea Gardens, north of Newcastle but have not confirmed if it is from the missing aircraft.
The search continues in “challenging” conditions, according to authorities, who are combing through the water at Bennetts Beach.
The chopper went missing near Port Stephens after taking off from Cessnock at about 8.50am yesterday, police confirmed earlier.
It was headed for Wallis Island at Forster, with a 54-year-old man and a dog on board.
9News understands he is an experienced pilot.
Police are carrying out “an extensive land and sea search” around Port Stephens, they said.
Anybody with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
