Remembering a beloved former radio host who went missing while fishing near a river inhabited by crocodiles, tributes have poured in for Roman Butchaski. Butchaski, an expert in fishing who presented a show on Australian radio, disappeared in November 2023 while fishing close to Oliva River.
Following sightings of two crocodiles in the area before Butchaski’s disappearance, a coroner concluded that he likely fell victim to one of the reptiles. In her report released on July 30, Coroner Christine Roney expressed, “The absence of any trace of the missing person during the extensive search indicates the likelihood that he was taken by a crocodile after entering the water.”
The coroner further stated, “Given the presence of large crocodiles in that water area, and the nature of Butchaski’s fishing activities that involved close proximity to the water’s edge and navigating obstacles like fallen trees, it is highly plausible that he encountered a crocodile while pursuing his hobby.”
Expressing condolences for Roman, radio host Ben Fordham acknowledged the closure that his family and friends must feel after the coroner’s findings. Fordham remarked on 2GB, the same station where Butchaski had worked, “It’s heart-wrenching when tragedy strikes, especially when the circumstances are unknown. Understanding what happened brings some relief. To Butch’s family, we stand with you during this time.”
Michael Guest, co-host of The Outdoor and Fishing Show, concurred with the coroner’s conclusions, noting the closure that the findings provided. He shared with Fordham, “The sense of emptiness when directly affected by such events is profound. The coroner’s words offer a sense of resolution that aligns with my initial thoughts.”
An extensive search, involving both land and air resources, was initiated for the veteran Sydney Radio 2GB presenter. Search teams located his vehicle, fishing equipment, and personal items, but no other trace of the experienced fisherman was found, after he failed to return to his camp at Bramwell Station, triggering the initial alarm.
Reports from The Mail and ABC detailed the unfolding search efforts and Butchaski’s last known activities along Olive River in Cape York. The challenging terrain, a known crocodile habitat, added a level of complexity to the search and rescue operations.
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