Today marks two years since Belgian tourist Celine Cremer vanished without a trace in Tasmania’s rugged north-west.
The 31-year-old backpacker disappeared on June 17, 2023, while visiting Philosopher Falls, a popular bushwalking destination near Waratah.
Her disappearance wasn’t reported until several days later, when family members raised the alarm after she failed to board her scheduled Spirit of Tasmania ferry.
Tasmania Police Inspector Andrew Hanson told Local Radio that extensive investigations had uncovered no signs of foul play, with mobile phone data indicating Cremer had likely strayed from the main walking track.
“There is no evidence of anything else other than a misadventure,” Inspector Hanson said.
“In fact, there is some evidence indicating that Celine went off the track at Philosopher Falls.”
Despite an intensive search effort involving police, volunteers, specialist teams, drones, helicopters and a cadaver dog flown in from New South Wales, not a single trace of Cremer has been found.
Inspector Hanson said the terrain around Philosopher Falls was particularly tough for search teams at the time.
“Visitors to Tasmania probably don’t realise how dense our natural bush is and Philosopher Falls is an example of that,” he said.
Police remain in regular contact with Cremer’s mother and say they are still committed to finding answers.
“We never close missing person cases,” Hanson said. “We are very committed to continuing to help Ariane find her daughter.”
Community groups have installed signage at the falls asking hikers to report anything unusual they might find, while the missing persons page ‘Shine the Light’ continues to keep Cremer’s case in the public eye.
