Body found in search for father who went missing six days ago after his dog and ute were discovered abandoned

A body has been found during an extensive search for a missing father after his dog and car were discovered six days after he vanished.

John ‘Tony’ Locker, 77, was last seen on Culey Ave at Cooma, in the south of NSW, on Monday afternoon.

NSW Police confirmed a body was found on farmland south of Cooma about 6pm on Saturday.

While the body is yet to be formally identified, it is believed to be that of Mr Locker.

Police confirmed initial inquiries indicate there are no suspicious circumstances and a report will be prepared for the Coroner.

Worried family members reported Mr Locker missing on Monday, holding concerns for his health given his reliance on medication.

During the widespread search, Mr Locker’s black and white Border Collie dog Sophie was found by residents at Kiah Ave, Cooma about 10.30pm on Friday.

Mr Locker’s Toyota utility was also found during the search near farmland, 10km south of Cooma, about 3pm on Saturday.

The discovery prompted a coordinated search by police, volunteers, SES and RFS is now focusing on this area and neighbouring properties.

Monaro Police District Duty Officer, Acting Inspector Tyrone Stacey thanked the local community for their ongoing help and support during the search.

On Friday, Mr Locker’s family had issued a heartfelt plea for help finding him, saying ‘each passing day heightens our worry’.

‘It’s with deep concern that we reach out to you, seeking your help in locating a cherished member of our family who has gone missing,’ they wrote.

‘We appeal to anyone who might have seen or heard something, regardless of how minor it may seem, to come forward and aid us in bringing Tony back home safely.

‘We thank all the landowners that have taken the time to search their properties over the last week.

‘Please help us bring dad home, as we fear that time is running out.’

On Thursday, NSW Police had asked residents in the Cooma area to check outbuildings including garages, sheds and other structures for Mr Locker.

A NSW Police spokesman said they’d explored ‘numerous lines of enquiry’, including that he may have travelled into Victoria.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.