Belgian Backpacker's Remains Provisionally Identified in Remote Tasmanian Wilderness
Tasmania Police have announced that human remains found in a remote wilderness area have been provisionally identified as those of Celine Cremer, a Belgian backpacker who vanished without a trace more than two years ago. The discovery brings a sombre conclusion to an extensive search operation that spanned multiple phases and involved numerous agencies.
Compelling Evidence Points to Missing Tourist
Tasmania Police Commander Nathan Johnston confirmed that expert reports have provided compelling evidence indicating the remains likely belong to Ms Cremer. The 31-year-old was last seen in the Philosopher Falls area near Cradle Mountain in the state's northwest on June 17, 2023. Her family reported her missing on June 26, which triggered a major search effort involving police, State Emergency Service ground crews, specialist swift water rescue personnel, drones, and a helicopter.
Police initially believed she had embarked on a walk, and her car was located in the falls car park just one day after the missing person's report was filed. Despite these early leads, no further trace of Ms Cremer was found until December 2025, when a privately funded search resumed and members of the group discovered her phone near Philosopher Falls.
Breakthrough Discovery in Dense Bushland
The search teams achieved a significant breakthrough in January when a bushwalker stumbled upon bones along a stretch of Arthur River, approximately 2 kilometres from the tourist's last known location. Subsequent searches in the vicinity uncovered five bones, teeth, a Honda car key, and various items of clothing. These recent discoveries were made in an area of dense bushland that police had only surveyed by helicopter during earlier search phases, highlighting the challenging terrain that hampered initial efforts.
Commander Johnston expressed the department's condolences, stating, 'Tasmania Police extends its sincere condolences to Ms Cremer's family and loved ones. While this provisional confirmation will not ease their loss, we hope the outcome will provide them with some measure of clarity and closure.' A report will now be prepared by the coroner, who will officially determine the identity of the remains in their final findings.
Acknowledgement of Search Efforts and Community Support
Mr Johnston also took the opportunity to thank the community for their ongoing support and interest in Celine's case. 'We want to thank community members for their ongoing support and interest in Celine's case,' he said. '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.'
Ms Cremer's family had been anxiously awaiting confirmation of the remains since being alerted to the discovery. The provisional identification marks a pivotal moment in a case that has captivated public attention and underscored the dangers of wilderness exploration in remote areas.
