Human remains found recently near Philosopher Falls have been “provisionally identified” as belonging to missing Belgian woman Celine Cremer.
Tasmania Police received expert reports providing compelling evidence the remains were likely those of the 31-year-old hiker who disappeared in June 2023.
The identification means no further searches of the Arthur River are planned.
“While this provisional confirmation will not ease their loss, we hope the outcome will provide them with some measure of clarity and closure,” Commander Nathan Johnston said.
Cremer was last seen in the town of Waratah on June 17 2023.
Her white Honda CR-V was discovered at the Philosopher Falls car park 10 days later, where it had sat since at least 20 June.
Initial police searches ended in July 2023 after experts determined she could not have survived the harsh winter conditions.
The case was reopened in December when a private search party organised by Cremer’s family and YouTuber Rob Parsons found her mobile phone less than 100 metres from its last known signal.
A volunteer searcher discovered human remains on January 28 this year.
Police have since recovered additional bones, clothing including a polar fleece jacket and thermal top, and personal items during a targeted search of the Arthur River.
The specialist search team completed a detailed examination of a 350-metre stretch of river earlier this month, finding five more bones, two teeth and a Honda car key.
Search personnel were winched into the remote location due to accessibility challenges. Severe weather forced the team to camp overnight before they could be extracted.
“We want to thank community members for their ongoing support and interest in Celine’s case,” Johnston said today.
“I want to acknowledge the extensive efforts of search and rescue personnel, partner agencies and volunteers who dedicated significant time and resources during the many search phases.”
A report is being prepared for the Coroner, who will officially determine the identity of the remains.
Police say they are keeping Cremer’s family in Belgium informed throughout the process.
