A man wanted for child sex offences in New South Wales may have travelled to north Queensland, police say.
An arrest warrant has been issued for 51-year-old Joseph Lowe, from Lightning Ridge in northern New South Wales.
NSW Police Force has described him as Caucasian, 170 centimetres tall with a thin build, light brown hair and hazel eyes.
Detective Chief Inspector Mick Stoltenberg from the New South Wales Child Abuse and Sex Crimes Squad said Mr Lowe was wanted over two matters of abusing a young girl.
"He has now fled since those offences have come to light," he said.
"Indications are that he has headed north, potentially all the way through to north Queensland — he's doing his best to avoid arrest."
Detective Inspector Stoltenberg said it was believed Mr Lowe was travelling in the company of a woman.
"There's some concern that Joseph Lowe has got access to some firearms, some longarms, and he may well have them in his possession," he said.
"His intention to have those firearms is unknown — but it increases the importance that people, if they do see Lowe, that they don't approach him personally, and they contact police immediately.
"The most important thing here is the ongoing safety of the general community."
