Overview
- Police say William left his Walhalla East campsite for a short walk on Friday and did not return, prompting concern after his camping companion found no trace of him.
- A coordinated search is operating from a Cowwarr command post with local police, the Public Order Response Team, Dog Squad, Mounted Branch, Search and Rescue Squad and State Emergency Services deployed.
- Victoria Police say they believe William may be disorientated in rugged terrain and are treating exposure as a key risk because he was wearing only shorts and work boots.
- Family members and police have urged anyone with information or possible sightings to contact authorities immediately to assist the active search.
- The Latrobe Valley bushland is rugged and can slow searches, so teams are using dogs, mounted units and specialist rescuers to cover wide areas and reach tracks such as Stoney Creek Road and the T2 Track.