Human remains have been unearthed near an isolated area where a Belgian hiker mysteriously vanished over two years ago.

The discovery was made by a bushwalker who was actively searching for Celine Cremer, last sighted on June 17, 2023, in the Philosopher Falls region near Cradle Mountain, located in Tasmania’s northwest.

The 31-year-old’s disappearance was reported by her family on June 26, prompting a widespread search operation that included police, State Emergency Service (SES) ground teams, specialized swift water rescue units, drones, and a helicopter.

It is believed Cremer embarked on a hiking trip, and her vehicle was subsequently located in the falls’ car park shortly after the missing person’s report was initiated.

The initial efforts to locate Celine Cremer engaged police, SES ground teams, swift water rescue specialists, drones, and aerial support. Source: AAP / Supplied

Inspector Andrew Hanson confirmed on Wednesday that the woman’s family in Belgium had been informed of the discovery.

“While forensic testing is yet to be completed, a pathologist has reviewed images and confirmed the remains are human,” he said.

“The volunteer contacted police immediately after the discovery, and officers from the Western District, along with specialist forensic personnel, are attending the scene.”

Renewed search launched

A privately led renewed search began in December 2025, with members of the group finding Cremer’s phone in the Philosopher Falls area.

An initial search was suspended on 10 July 2023, after experts said Cremer could not have survived in bad weather.

Police then deployed a cadaver dog to search an additional “area of interest” at Philosopher Falls following new information about her phone activity, but that investigation was unsuccessful.

Hanson said the discovery would have been a distressing development for her loved ones.

“While everyone involved hopes it will help to provide answers, formal forensic analysis is required before we can determine whether the remains belong to Celine,” he added.

“The person who located these remains has been dedicated to searching for Celine for some time, and their continued efforts and that of other volunteer search parties reflects the strong community support behind this matter.”

For the latest from SBS News, download our app and subscribe to our newsletter.