"Last spoke to relatives ... calling from her car": Two missing in Eugowra

November 15, 2022

Les Vugec and Dianne Smith and (main photo) Eugowra. NSW SES/NSW Police/Facebook.

By Peter Holmes

A search is underway for a man and a woman believed to be missing in flood waters in Eugowra, about 70km west of Orange.

Dianne Smith, aged 60, last spoke to a relative on the phone about 9.30am yesterday (Monday November 14, 2022). She was calling from her car in Eugowra.

When relatives were not able to contact her again she was reported missing to officers from Parkes Police Station.

Police have conducted a number of inquiries and have commenced extensive searches in the area utilising Police Rescue and Bomb Disposal Unit, Rural Fire Service, State Emergency Service and the Volunteer Rescue Association.

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Investigating police have also issued a geo-targeted message in the Eugowra area.

Diane is described as being of Caucasian appearance, 160cm tall with brown hair.

Police have also issued a geo-targeted message as they appeal for public assistance to locate an 85-year-old man, also missing from Eugowra.

Ljubisa "Les" Vugec was last seen at a home in Evelyn Street, Eugowra, about 9am yesterday (Monday November 14, 2022).

When family could not locate him or contact him, he was reported missing to officers from Central West Police District, who commenced an investigation into his whereabouts.

Family and police hold serious concerns for his welfare.

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Police have conducted a number of inquiries and have commenced extensive searches in the area utilising Police Rescue and Bomb Disposal Unit, Rural Fire Service, State Emergency Service, and the Volunteer Rescue Association.

Les is described as being of Caucasian appearance, between 180-185cm tall, of medium build, with grey hair and brown eyes.

According to a Facebook post from a friend, Vugec and his staffy dog are both missing.

"His neighbours/street were rescued from their roof tops and evacuated. Les can’t swim so his family are worried and would like to know he is ok. I’ve been to the evacuation centre in Orange but he’s not there. Sharing in hope it may help and someone may recognise him or anything."

Anyone who sees Les or has any information regarding his location is urged to contact Central West police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

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