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A search has commenced for a second day following the discovery of clothing and human remains near the site where a Belgian hiker disappeared over two years ago in Tasmania.
Authorities anticipate it could be up to three weeks before confirming whether the bones, jacket, and other items are linked to Belgian tourist Celine Cremer, who went missing in the state’s challenging northwest terrain in June 2023.
The police-led search is taking place approximately 2 kilometers from Philosopher Falls near Cradle Mountain, the last known location visited by the 31-year-old.
On Friday, police conducted a search along a segment of the Arthur River near Waratah after a bushwalker discovered remains, including a jawbone, earlier in the week.
Ms. Cremer’s disappearance was reported by her family on June 26, 2023, prompting an extensive search operation involving police, SES ground teams, specialized swift water rescue units, drones, and helicopter support.
It’s believed she set off on a walk and her car was found in the falls car park a day after police were alerted to the concerns for her welfare.
Jacket, bra, thermal top found
Commander Nathan Johnston confirmed a polar fleece jacket, likely Ms Cremer’s, was among the items found by officers on Friday.
He said a bra and a thermal top had also been discovered, along with more bones.
“Whilst further forensic examination will need to be conducted to confirm the identity, due to the nature of the items located, and the location, we believe they are Celine’s,” Johnston told reporters.
Cremer’s mother Ariane Cremer took to social media, saying she had been contacted by police who indicated it might take “a lot longer than three weeks” to confirm the identity.
Responsibility will ultimately fall to the state coroner.
A bushwalker involved in a privately led renewed search for Cremer initially discovered human remains on Wednesday.
They are being treated as a separate investigation until a full gamut of forensic tests can be conducted.
The bones will be examined by a pathologist, anthropologist and odontologist and undergo DNA analysis.
The same search group discovered Cremer’s phone in December.
“We recognise how significant these developments are for Celine’s family, and we are ensuring they receive updates as sensitively and promptly as possible,” Johnston said.
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