Extensive search efforts have been carried out in Tasmania’s north-west this weekend after unexplained cries for help were heard coming from dense bushland in South Riana.
Emergency services have been unable to locate anyone in distress despite deploying ground teams, drones and the Westpac Rescue helicopter to scour the heavily wooded terrain near the Blythe River.
The search began after a local resident reported hearing calls for help from what sounded like a male voice behind Wyllies Road at Riana at approximately 8:15pm on Saturday.
“Police attended shortly after and also heard the calls for help, but were unable to communicate with the source, or find any trace of a person in distress,” a Tasmania Police spokesperson said.
Initial search operations were suspended around 3am Sunday due to challenging conditions including poor lighting and difficult terrain.
Tasmania Police Search and Rescue personnel, supported by State Emergency Service volunteers, resumed a comprehensive search of the area in daylight hours.
Despite the efforts, authorities say they have not located any person, items of interest or evidence indicating someone might be stranded in the bushland.
Police are now seeking public assistance to determine whether anyone might be missing in the vicinity of South Riana Dam.
“If anyone has information in relation to someone that was planning to visit this area and has not been heard from, or they have been unable to contact them, please notify police on 131 444,” authorities said.
