Scott Duff: Cairns community in mourning after death of ‘highly regarded’ police officer and dad

A north Queensland community is in mourning after the body of a 50-year-old father and police officer was found just over a week after his “out of character” disappearance that sparked a massive search operation.

Tributes are pouring for 50-year-old Scott Duff, whose body was found in the Cairns area on Tuesday, eight days after officers combed through bushland near Edmonton, south of Cairns, where he was last seen on the afternoon of April 8.

Police have not disclosed where they found Mr Duff’s body, and his death is not being treated as suspicious.

A report will be prepared for the coroner.

Mr Duff, who was a senior constable with the Queensland Police Service has been remembered as a “highly regarded officer” by the force and the community that he served.

“The Far North police community has been deeply impacted by this loss, particularly those who knew and worked with Scott during his many years as a highly regarded police officer,” QPS Far North Region Assistant Commissioner Schafferius said in a statement.

“Our officers are being provided with a range of support services as they come to terms with this terrible news.”

His statement directed those who need help to contact Lifeline (13 11 14) or Beyond Blue (1300 22 46 36).

Edmonton Neighbourhood Watch posted a memorial to the late officer, offering their “deepest condolences” to Mr Duff’s family.

“It is with a profound sense of loss that we honour the memory of Senior Constable Scott,” the post reads.

“Scott will be remembered for his kindness, compassion, significant contributions to our community and friendship to many.”

It also thanked the officers and volunteers for their “diligent efforts” to locate the missing officer, which included deploying drones and rescue helicopters.

“Scott’s legacy of service and kindness will not be forgotten,” the post ended.

Locals shared their own tributes to the late officer, who was described as “a man with a heart bigger than Phar Lap”.

“Such hearthreaking news for his family and the entire Cairns region. Scott made such a positive impact on the community. One of the nicest humans I’ve ever met. His loss will be keenly felt,” one woman wrote.

“Such a great bloke ... our hearts are hurting,” wrote another local.

“We will miss your advice and easy smile. Your experience in this community has left a huge huge impact. You were so very much loved.”

Cairns Councillor Matthew Tickner also offered his condolences to Mr Duff’s friends and family, particularly his wife and children, “during this difficult time”.

“Scott gave over 20 years of dedication to the Queensland Police Service, many of which will also be grieving the loss of their beloved colleague, my thoughts go out to you all,” Cr Tickner wrote on social media.

He also thanked the local emergency response team and the local community who “showed their true colours... by coming together to support them by “inundating them with offerings of food, water and supplies to assist in the search”.

“Thank you for your service to the community Scott, may you rest in peace.”

If you or someone you know needs support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14. For further information about depression contact beyondblue on 1300 224 636 or talk to your local health professional or GP.

In an emergency, call triple-0 (000).