Missing diver found alive in Qld, 16 hours after going missing

UPDATE @ 12.15pm: A diver missing in Qld waters for nearly 16 hours has been found alive and well.

Police said the 68-year-old was located this morning following a major sea and aerial search.

He was found 30 nautical miles from the wreck has was diving near.

The man was reported missing around 6.45pm yesterday, after he failed to return home after leaving to go diving in the Coral Sea on his own.

He is currently being assessed at Townsville hospital.

EARLIER @ 9.30am: A major sea and aerial search is currently underway for a diver who is missing near the Yongala dive site in the Coral Sea.

Around 6.45pm yesterday, police were contacted after a 68-year-old man failed to return home after leaving to go diving on his own.

A marine search conducted by water police, Volunteer Marine Rescue and the Coastguard, and an aerial search conducted by a number of aircraft has so far failed to locate the man.

Overnight, a vessel was located at the dive site, however no persons were on board.

There is no further information available at this time.