Human Remains and Clothing Found in Search for Missing Belgian Bushwalker in Tasmania
Remains Found in Search for Missing Belgian Bushwalker in Tasmania

In a significant development in a long-running missing persons case, items of clothing and additional human remains have been discovered during the search for a bushwalker who disappeared in Tasmania two years ago. The ongoing investigation for Celine Cremer, a 31-year-old Belgian tourist, has taken a sombre turn with these latest findings.

Discovery Near Philosopher Falls

On Wednesday, search teams uncovered bones in the vicinity of Philosopher Falls, located near Cradle Mountain on Tasmania's rugged west coast. This initial discovery prompted a more intensive follow-up operation.

Tasmania Police commander Nathan Johnston detailed that on Friday, a search team was winched down into the dense bushland surrounding the Arthur River, near the town of Waratah. The team conducted a meticulous line search of a 500-metre section of the river, approximately 2.5 kilometres from Philosopher Falls.

Personal Items Located

During this detailed search, authorities located what Commander Johnston described as "further items." These included a polar fleece jacket, which is believed to have belonged to Celine Cremer, along with a bra and a thermal top. The search also yielded what police have reported as "more bones."

Whilst formal forensic examination is still required for definitive identification, the nature of the items and their specific location have led investigators to a preliminary conclusion. Commander Johnston stated, "We believe they are Celine's." He acknowledged the profound impact of these developments on Cremer's family, emphasising that police are providing updates "as sensitively and promptly as possible."

Continuation of the Search

Police confirmed that the methodical search of the area continued on Saturday. This renewed investigative effort was initially spearheaded by a privately-led mission. The mission was organised by 31-year-old filmmaker and YouTuber Rob Parsons, alongside a group of Cremer's friends who had travelled from Belgium.

This volunteer group had previously made a crucial breakthrough in December 2025, when they discovered Cremer's Samsung phone. The device was found half-concealed by moss and twigs, less than 100 metres from her last known GPS location.

A Grim Discovery

The search efforts persisted, leading to a chilling discovery this week. Volunteer searcher Jarrod Boys recounted going into shock upon finding a jawbone on Wednesday. No clothing or personal items were located near these initial remains. Official testing is expected to take several weeks before the coroner can confirm the identity.

However, Tasmania Police Inspector Andrew Hanson indicated a strong likelihood, noting there was "no doubt" the proximity of the bones was sufficiently close to where Cremer went missing for authorities to seriously consider them hers.

Background of the Disappearance

Celine Cremer was last seen in Tasmania's northwest in June 2023. Police believe she had been walking alone at Philosopher Falls. As daylight began to fade, it is thought she may have left the main track to take a more direct route back to her car.

Her vehicle was later found parked in the Philosopher Falls carpark. Disturbingly, she was not reported missing until nine days after embarking on that solo winter bushwalk. The case has drawn significant attention and underscores the dangers of remote wilderness areas, even for experienced visitors.