The body of missing walker Daryl Fong has been recovered from the Mount Field National Park, ending a nine-day search through treacherous alpine conditions.
Tasmania Police search and rescue crews, working with a rescue helicopter, found the body thought to be Fong’s on Tuesday at 6pm.
The hiker had been missing since Sunday, October 12, after setting out alone to photograph the Tarn Shelf Circuit.
Search teams faced waist-deep snow, poor visibility and gale-force winds as they combed the park throughout the week.
Inspector Luke Horne thanked the crews who worked in the brutal conditions.
“I would like to extend my sincere thanks to all search crews, particularly the volunteers, who worked tirelessly in these extreme conditions,” he said.
“Their dedication and resilience are a vital part of our rescue capability and consistently go above and beyond.”
Fong’s brother Ethan earlier thanked the search teams and community for their support.
“We can’t even begin to express how much we appreciate all your tireless efforts,” he wrote in a post to a local hiking group.
“It’s hard to believe how many people have been working so relentlessly to bring my brother home and provide us with some closure.”
The family has now requested privacy as they grieve.
“Daryl’s family and friends have requested privacy during this difficult time as they come to terms with the loss of their son and friend,” Inspector Horne said.
Police say no suspicious circumstances have been identified.
A report will be prepared for the coroner.
Mount Field National Park sits about 70 kilometres northwest of Hobart.
