It’s a painstaking, but necessary process as police continued the search for the remains of anti-drugs crusader Donald Mackay yesterday.

As the sun set on day three, there’d been little development among the rows of lettuce and, unless a find is made, it’s a scenario that’s expected to play out until Wednesday. 

Initially the search was set down for five to seven days, but has been hampered by rain. 

Griffith commander Superintendent Michael Rowan told The Daily Advertiser last night police efforts were still focused on an area spanning 50 metres by 30 metres. 

Superintendent Rowan said the investigation – which was being undertaken as part of a “rather specific”, structured plan – concluded for the day about 5pm and would resume this morning. 

A search warrant was executed on the property, Willow Farm, west of Hay on Wednesday after police descended on the town. 

It was later confirmed the search was for Mr Mackay’s remains. 

Since then, personnel from NSW Police, the Australian Federal Police and Unsolved Crimes Unit have scoured the area in the hope of ending the 36-year mystery of his disappearance.

The property, which remains under 24-hour guard, has been at the centre of national media attention for days. 

Yesterday, most of them packed up and headed out – shifting the spotlight off the town, for now. 

All the Hay community, its Griffith neighbours and the entire nation can do is wait.