MARSAR File 78/1205: Light Aircraft Overdue at King Island

This file documents the search and rescue operation for a Cessna 182 aircraft, registration VH-DSJ, piloted by Frederick Valentich, which went missing on a flight from Moorabbin, Victoria, to King Island on October 21, 1978. The pilot reported a rough-running engine and, notably, reported seeing a fast-moving, brilliant white light, which he suggested might be a UFO, shortly after departing Cape Otway. Following the loss of communication, a massive search operation was initiated, involving the Australian Coastal Surveillance Centre, the RAAF, and local fishing vessels. Despite an intensive search of the Bass Strait area, no wreckage or body was ever recovered. The file contains numerous internal communications, telephone messages, and administrative records regarding the search, including the chartering of local fishing vessels to assist. The search was officially terminated on October 25, 1978, with no conclusive findings. The file notes that the incident gained significant media attention due to the pilot's mention of a UFO, and that the pilot's father maintained a belief that his son had been taken by a UFO.