Remains and Jacket Discovered in Tasmanian Wilderness, Likely Ending Two-Year Search for Missing Belgian Hiker
Tasmanian police announced Friday that a grim discovery in the state's remote northwest has likely brought a tragic end to the more than two-year search for missing Belgian national Celine Cremer. Human remains and clothing, including a distinctive polar fleece jacket, were recovered near Philosopher's Falls in Waratah—the same area where the 31-year-old was last believed to be hiking in June 2023.
The initial large-scale search for Cremer was suspended in July 2023 after medical experts concluded survival in the freezing, wet conditions was impossible. She had vanished after leaving her car for what was planned as a light day walk on June 20. Her mobile phone signal was lost that same day.
This week's breakthrough began when a bushwalker stumbled upon human remains on Wednesday. A subsequent police search on Friday located additional bones and clothing items. "Today's search resulted in the discovery of more bones, as well as clothing items – including a polar fleece jacket – that we believe are likely to belong to Celine," stated Commander Nathan Johnston. While formal forensic identification is pending, police said the location and nature of the finds strongly point to Cremer. Her family has been notified.
The discovery follows last month's find of Cremer's mobile phone by an independent search party organized by her friends and family, reigniting efforts in the challenging terrain. "We recognize how significant these developments are for Celine's family," Commander Johnston added, noting search teams would continue to methodically scour the area.
The case highlights the dangers of Tasmania's wilderness, even for prepared day-hikers. Cremer disappeared as the region was hit by a severe winter storm with subzero temperatures, snow, and heavy rain—conditions that ultimately sealed the fate of the search.
Community Reaction
Eleanor Vance, local hiking guide: "This is a heartbreaking outcome, but I hope it brings some closure for the family. It's a stark reminder that our beautiful wilderness demands the utmost respect and preparation."
Marcus Thorne, wildlife photographer and frequent area visitor: "The terrain around Philosopher's Falls is deceptively rugged. Cell service is non-existent. While the official search was called off reasonably based on expert advice, one can't help but wonder if more persistent, technology-aided private efforts earlier could have changed things."
Dr. Anya Sharma, forensic anthropologist (unaffiliated with the case): "The recovery of clothing, especially synthetic layers like polar fleece which degrade slowly, is crucial. It can protect remains from scavengers and the elements, aiding identification and potentially helping reconstruct final moments."
Klara Defosse, friend of Celine's family (emotional): "Two years! Two years of agony for her parents while bones lay in the bush. The authorities gave up too soon. That phone was found by volunteers, not the police. Their initial conclusion that she couldn't have survived maybe stopped them from looking hard enough for the truth, for her."