A bushwalker has discovered human remains in a remote area of Tasmania, close to where Belgian backpacker Celine Cremer vanished more than two years ago during a solo hike. The grim discovery was made near Philosopher Falls, adjacent to the iconic Cradle Mountain, on Wednesday by a dedicated volunteer searcher.
Police Confirm Human Remains at Scene
Tasmania Police Inspector Andrew Hanson stated that the individual was actively participating in the ongoing search efforts for Celine Cremer when the remains were located. While formal forensic testing is still required, a pathologist has reviewed images from the scene and confirmed that the remains are indeed human.
Inspector Hanson emphasised that the volunteer immediately contacted authorities upon making the discovery. Officers from the Western District, along with specialised forensic personnel, have since attended the remote location to conduct a thorough investigation.
Family Notified as Investigation Continues
The Cremer family in Belgium has been informed of this significant development. We understand how distressing this news may be for her loved ones, Inspector Hanson said. While everyone involved hopes this will provide some answers, we must await formal forensic analysis before determining if the remains belong to Celine.
He praised the dedication of the volunteer who found the remains, noting that this person has been committed to the search for Cremer for an extended period. The continued efforts of this individual and other volunteer search parties highlight the strong community support surrounding this case, Hanson added.
Background on Celine Cremer's Disappearance
Celine Cremer was last seen in Waratah on June 17, 2023. Police believe she was walking alone at Philosopher Falls and may have left the designated track to take a more direct route back to her vehicle as daylight faded. Her car was later discovered in the Philosopher Falls carpark, but she was not reported missing until nine days after her winter bushwalk.
Previous Search Discoveries
This latest discovery follows previous findings by volunteer search teams. In December, an independent group comprising volunteers, friends of Cremer from Belgium, and Tasmanian explorer Rob Parsons located a makeshift shelter and Cremer's mobile phone in the same general area.
Her phone was recovered less than 100 metres from her last known GPS location, approximately 300 metres from where the potential shelter was found. Volunteer teams have continued to comb the rugged terrain near these discovery sites in the hope of finding answers.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Interest
Inspector Hanson acknowledged the sustained public interest in Celine Cremer's case and assured that police will share further confirmed information as it becomes available. We are committed to providing updates when we are able to do so, he stated.
The discovery marks a potentially crucial development in a case that has captivated both local and international attention for over two years, as authorities work to bring closure to Cremer's family and friends.
