Human Remains Discovered in Search for Belgian Backpacker Missing in Tasmania Since 2023
Human remains have been discovered in a remote area of Tasmania during the ongoing search for a Belgian backpacker who vanished more than two years ago. The grim discovery was made near the Philosopher Falls area close to Cradle Mountain in Tasmania's northwest, where Celine Cremer was last seen on June 17, 2023.
Discovery by Dedicated Volunteer Bushwalker
A bushwalker participating in a privately-led search effort located the remains, immediately contacting authorities about the find. Inspector Andrew Hanson confirmed that police from the Western District along with specialist forensic personnel have attended the scene to conduct a thorough investigation.
"While forensic testing is yet to be completed, a pathologist has reviewed images and confirmed the remains are human," Inspector Hanson stated during a Wednesday announcement.
Family Notified of Distressing Development
The 31-year-old Belgian tourist's family in Belgium has been informed of the discovery, which police acknowledge represents a distressing development for her loved ones. Cremer was reported missing by her family on June 26, 2023, nearly ten days after she was last seen, sparking an extensive search operation.
"While everyone involved hopes it will help to provide answers, formal forensic analysis is required before we can determine whether the remains belong to Celine," Inspector Hanson added, emphasising the need for conclusive forensic examination.
Extensive Search History and Community Efforts
The initial search for Cremer involved significant resources including police and State Emergency Service ground crews, specialist swift water rescue personnel, drones, and helicopter support. Her car was found in the Philosopher Falls car park just one day after the missing person report was filed, indicating she had likely set out on a walk in the area.
After experts determined Cremer could not have survived in the deteriorating weather conditions, the official search was suspended on July 10, 2023. Police later deployed a cadaver dog to investigate an additional "area of interest" following new information about her phone activity, though that effort proved unsuccessful.
Renewed Search Efforts Yield Previous Discoveries
A privately-led renewed search began in December 2025, with members of the volunteer group previously finding Cremer's phone in the Philosopher Falls area. Inspector Hanson praised the dedication of those involved in the search efforts, noting their persistence reflected strong community support for resolving the case.
"The person who located these remains has been dedicated to searching for Celine for some time, and their continued efforts and that of other volunteer search parties reflects the strong community support behind this matter," he said.
The discovery marks a potentially significant development in a case that has drawn attention to the dangers of Tasmania's wilderness areas and the challenges of search operations in remote locations. Authorities continue their investigation as they await formal forensic analysis results that may finally provide answers about Cremer's disappearance.
