On Air Highlights

Hopes of finding survivors from PNG ferry sinking fade

3 February 2012

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Worsening weather conditions in the area where a ferry sank off Papua New Guinea yesterday are lowering the hopes of rescuers searching for those still missing.

The Rabaul Queen was hit by three big waves as it approached Lae on a voyage from Kimbe and sank quickly.

A sea and air search led to the rescue of 238 people, the shipping company says 350 passengers and crew are believed to have been on board.

But there are conflicting reports about the actual number of passengers on board.

Tracee Hutchison spoke to Caroline Tiriman, part of Radio Australia’s PNG Tok Pisin service.

She says some of the survivors believe many people were not on the passenger manifesto.

Presenter Tracee Hutchison

Speaker: Caroline Tiriman, broadcaster with Radio Australia’s Tok Pisin service