An extensive two-day search in North West Tasmania concluded successfully on Thursday, August 20, with the safe location of an elderly South Australian couple, Peter, 79, and Clementina, 81. The pair had been reported missing after failing to return from a day trip on Tuesday.
Tasmania Police confirmed on Thursday that Peter and Clementina were found in the Dial Range area near Riana, approximately 48 hours after they were last seen. The couple had left the home of relatives in Milabena, about 25 kilometres west of Wynyard, around 2:30 PM on Tuesday, August 18, intending to explore the Burnie, Ulverstone, and Penguin areas.
Concerns for their welfare grew when they did not return as planned that evening, prompting family members to alert authorities. Tasmania Police launched a significant search operation, deploying search and rescue personnel, vehicles, and quad bikes. Initial efforts on Wednesday were hampered by unfavourable weather conditions, which prevented the Westpac Rescue helicopter from providing aerial support.
However, by Thursday, the search intensified with the deployment of the Westpac Rescue helicopter, joining ground crews in a concentrated effort across local tourist spots and potential travel routes. Inspector Anthea Maingay stated that police were following every possible lead to bring the couple home to their family.
The breakthrough came shortly before 10:30 AM on Thursday when search teams located the couple’s silver Honda CRV, with South Australian registration S744ACB, on the side of Cookes Road in the Dial Range area. Peter and Clementina were found a short distance from their vehicle.
According to Pulse Tasmania, the couple had become stranded after diverting into the Dial Range area and getting stuck on an unsealed road near Ironcliffe Road. They spent two nights in their vehicle, enduring cold and wet conditions, before deciding to leave a note on their car around 9:30 AM on Thursday and walk in search of communication.
Upon being found, the couple was described as cold and wet, suffering minor injuries. Ambulance Tasmania paramedics assessed them at the scene, and they were subsequently taken to the North West Regional Hospital for further assessment before being reunited with their relieved family.
Tasmania Police extended their gratitude to all emergency services and members of the public who assisted in the search. Following the incident, police urged tourists exploring Tasmania’s wilderness to ensure family members are aware of their exact intended destinations and any changes to their plans, to assist search efforts should an emergency arise.