A $500,000 reward for information from the public has been announced as part of ongoing investigations into the disappearance of 23-year-old Coen woman Allison Bernard in 2013.
Police Minister Mark Ryan approved the significant reward for information leading to the circumstances surrounding Ms Bernard’s disappearance or leading to her being located.
Ms Bernard was last seen at Archer River Quarry on Sunday, February 10 in 2013 at about 11pm
She had been seen at the Exchange Hotel in Coen that evening, and was expected to travel to Kowanyama, but never arrived.
Ms Bernard is described as First Nations, approximately 155cms tall, with a slim build and brown hair.
An initial large-scale search of the area that utilised police on foot, quad bikes and vehicles along with helicopters, SES, Defence Force personnel and the police dive squad failed to locate any sign of Ms Bernard.
New drone and camera technology which was unavailable in 2013 was utilised for a systematic search of the area in 2021, along with officers on horseback and in four-wheel drives.
This targeted search operation, along with further searches in the Coen area in late 2022, unfortunately did not advance investigations.
Police Minister Mark Ryan offered the reward for information to assist in giving some answers and closure to Ms Bernard and her loved ones.
“I genuinely hope that this reward helps to provide answers for Ms Bernard, her family, friends and the community.” Minister Ryan said.
Detective Superintendent Sonia Smith remains determined that someone out there has the missing piece of the puzzle to help find Ms Bernard.
“We will not give up. Ms Bernard’s disappearance has had a devastating impact on this community and together we won’t stop until we find answers.”
“We would like to thank the local community who continues to support our ongoing investigations and urge members of the public to continue spreading the word – anyone with information should immediately contact police.”
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or call 131 444.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
