UPDATE: This media release has been amended since the original release.
Northern Territory Police are continuing their search for a missing 64-year-old man on the Larapinta Trail near Alice Springs.
He was last heard from via text message on Tuesday 21 May 2024, reporting that he had planned to be at Hugh Gorge by Wednesday 22 May 2024.
A search operation has been underway on the Larapinta Trail since 9am yesterday morning, with Search and Rescue Section members, Alice Springs police officers, volunteers from the Larapinta Trail Trek Support Team and local Parks and Wildlife Rangers leading the search efforts. Aerial searches were conducted by Jet Ranger Helicopter and Challenger Search and Rescue aircraft.
Police have conducted multiple enquiries regarding his location, however, at this stage his location continues to remain unknown.
Search areas will now be focused on Sections 4, 5 and 6 of the Larapinta Trail, as well as other areas of lower priority. Search areas have been split into foot, vehicle, motorcycle and aerial searches, pending weather conditions in the area, in line with current knowledge associated with timings and advice from relevant local experts. NT Emergency Services and Wilderness Trail volunteers are now assisting with search efforts.
Search Coordinator Acting Sergeant Christopher Grotherr said, “We are using all the resources available to us to conduct this search and urge members of the public with any information about the man's whereabouts to get in contact.
“This is a large coordinated response between a number of agencies and volunteers, and I want to acknowledge and thank the efforts of all involved so far as we continue our search. We are unable to conduct such operations without their invaluable assistance.”
The missing man is said to be an experienced hiker with adequate food and water. He is described as 6ft tall, slim build, fair skin, light brown/greying hair and wearing a blue broad brimmed hat.
Police hold concerns for his welfare and urge members of the public who may have any information about his whereabouts or intentions to contact police on 131 444, or attend your local police station.
