Human Remains Found in Search for Missing Belgian Backpacker

Possible Breakthrough in Céline Cremer Case After 2.5 Years

Human remains have been discovered in the rugged Tasmanian wilderness during the ongoing search for missing Belgian backpacker Céline Cremer, who vanished more than two and a half years ago. The discovery was made by a volunteer bushwalker near Philosopher Falls, close to Cradle Mountain, where the 31-year-old was last seen on June 17, 2023.

Discovery by Dedicated Volunteers

The remains were found on Wednesday by volunteer Jarrod Boys, who has been part of persistent community search efforts that have continued long after official searches were suspended. The location is approximately two hours' walking distance from where Cremer's mobile phone was discovered in December 2025. 'We understand how distressing this development must be for her loved ones,' Tasmania Police stated on their Facebook page. 'While everyone hopes this will provide answers, forensic examination is required before we can determine if the remains are Céline's.'

Forensic Investigation Underway

A pathologist has confirmed through image review that the remains are human, but formal forensic testing is now underway to establish identity. Police Inspector Andrew Hanson confirmed that Cremer's family in Belgium has been notified of the discovery. The remains were found on top of soil and stones in the dense bushland area that has challenged searchers for years.

The Disappearance and Search History

Céline Cremer, a 31-year-old Belgian national, went missing during a solo winter bushwalk near Philosopher Falls in Tasmania's remote northwest. She wasn't reported missing until nine days after her hike, when her family in Belgium raised the alarm. Her vehicle was found in the Philosopher Falls carpark, and initial searches involving police, State Emergency Service crews, drones, helicopters, and cadaver dogs were suspended in July 2023 after experts concluded she couldn't have survived the harsh weather conditions that followed her disappearance.

Recent volunteer efforts have yielded significant clues. In December 2025, searchers found Cremer's mobile phone about 300 meters from a walking track, along with a water bottle and what appeared to be a makeshift poncho made from a garbage bag. Analysis of GPS data from the recovered phone revealed her final movements: she left the car park at 2:18pm, walked beyond the waterfall along an old water race, then diverted south through dense vegetation around 3:40pm, with the final GPS ping occurring at 4:18pm.

Community's Unwavering Commitment

The discovery highlights the extraordinary dedication of volunteers who have refused to give up on finding answers. 'The ongoing search efforts indicate the strong local involvement in this case,' police noted, acknowledging the community's persistence. According to Tasmanian Times reports, the search operation mobilized an unprecedented community response, with experienced walkers volunteering from across Tasmania, interstate, and internationally. Four of Cremer's closest friends even traveled from Belgium to participate in ground searches.

The challenging terrain consists of thick, vast, tangled jungle vegetation where progress is measured in inches rather than miles. Police will hold a press conference once forensic analysis is complete, potentially bringing closure to a case that has haunted both the local community and Cremer's family overseas for nearly three years.