At a Glance
- Celine Cremer, 31, went missing in the Tasmanian wilderness on June 17, 2023.
- Human remains were located near Philosopher Falls on Jan. 28, 2024.
- A volunteer discovered the remains 1.86 miles from the car park.
- Why it matters: The find may bring closure to Cremer’s family and clarify the circumstances of her disappearance.
The search for Celine Cremer has spanned two years, with the discovery of human remains offering a glimmer of hope for answers. The remains were found near Philosopher Falls in Waratah, a remote area bordering the Tarkine rainforest.
Background of Disappearance
Celine Cremer, a 31-year-old Belgian tourist, was last seen in Waratah on June 17, 2023. She had driven to Philosopher Falls, parked her car, and set off on what was intended to be a short bushwalk. Police were notified nine days later, and her car was found the next day in the parking lot.
The initial search lasted two weeks, followed by several subsequent searches over the past two years. Weather conditions during the period of her disappearance were harsh, with sub-zero temperatures, snow, and rainfall making survival unlikely.
Search Efforts
Tasmanian Police (TP) and community volunteers have coordinated extensive search operations.
- Volunteer participation: Local bushwalkers and dedicated search parties have combed the surrounding area.
- Community support: The continued efforts of volunteers reflect strong community backing for the case.
- Forensic involvement: Specialist forensic personnel have been dispatched to any potential sites.
Police Inspector Andrew Hanson noted that the volunteer who found the remains had been searching for Cremer for some time.
Discovery of Remains
On Jan. 28, 2024, a volunteer named Jarrod Boys located human remains approximately 1.86 miles northeast of the Philosopher Falls car park. He described the bones as lying on top of a pile of soil and stones.
“The bones that I saw were just lying on top of a pile of soil and stones,” Boys told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.
A pathologist reviewed images of the site and confirmed that the remains were human. Police Inspector Andrew Hanson confirmed the discovery and stated that officers from the Western District were attending the scene.
Police Response
Police are conducting forensic analysis to determine whether the remains belong to Cremer. The analysis will involve DNA testing and other identification methods.
The Cremer family in Belgium has been notified of the discovery. Inspector Hanson added, “We understand how distressing this development may be for her loved ones, and 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.”
A press conference is scheduled for Jan. 29, 2024, where police will provide more details on the forensic analysis.
Next Steps
- Forensic analysis: DNA testing and other identification procedures.
- Public communication: Updates will be shared during the press conference.
- Continued search: Police will maintain search efforts if necessary.
The discovery follows the finding of Cremer’s phone at Philosopher Falls on Dec. 13, which was the first item of hers found since her disappearance.
Key Takeaways
- The remains found near Philosopher Falls may finally identify the fate of Celine Cremer.
- Police and volunteers have been working together for two years, demonstrating strong community involvement.
- Forensic analysis will be crucial in confirming the identity of the remains.
- A press conference on Jan. 29, 2024 will provide further details.
The case remains a poignant reminder of the challenges faced in remote wilderness searches and the enduring hope for closure.
