Celine Cremer’s disappearance has become a global story, drawing eyes far beyond Australia’s borders. What began as a solitary bushwalk in Tasmania’s north-west swiftly transformed into a massive search operation, monopolising headlines worldwide. Over two years have passed and fresh information has once again focused attention on her case, even as numerous questions remain unanswered.
In this article, we explore everything known about Celine Cremer, who she was, what happened to her, the search efforts and why her story continues to resonate across communities.
Who was Celine Cremer?
Celine Cremer was a 31-year-old woman from Belgium travelling through Australia as part of an extended overseas trip. Like many international travellers, she was drawn to Tasmania’s position for its natural forests, waterfalls, and remote walking tracks.
Friends described her as someone who relished independence and the thrill of exploration. Her journeys were filled with images of Australia’s stunning landscapes, with Tasmania often taking centre stage, a testament to her passion for nature and the unknown. When she disappeared, Celine was travelling alone and had plans to continue her journey after leaving the island state.
The day she disappeared: 17 June 2023
On 17 June 2023, Celine parked her car near Philosopher Falls, a well-known but challenging walking area close to Waratah in Tasmania’s north-west. The walk is typically a short one, manageable in a few hours. But the rainforest surrounding it’s is thick, with dense underbrush, uneven terrain and limited visibility beyond the main track.
Celine’s car was later discovered parked at the trailhead. When she didn’t come back and then missed her ferry days later, alarms went off. She was officially reported missing soon afterwards.
Early search efforts and harsh conditions
Tasmania Police and emergency services jumped into action, launching a major search. Teams from all over the state, including specialists, helicopters, drones, and search and rescue crews, scoured the thick Tarkine rainforest around Philosopher Falls.
The conditions proved extremely challenging. Dense vegetation and rugged terrain made ground searches slow and physically demanding. Winter weather in the Tarkine region brought freezing temperatures, rain and even snow, which experts later suggested were conditions unlikely to be survivable for an extended period of time.
After weeks of searching, with no trace of Celine, the police officially suspended the search in July 2023. Though the formal investigation had concluded, authorities emphasised that the case remained open, unresolved. They highlighted the difficult, almost inaccessible bushland where she vanished.
Why the case resonated with Australians?
Celine Cremer’s disappearance struck a chord with Australians for several reasons. Tasmania’s wilderness is a source of both admiration and trepidation. Australians, in particular, are acutely aware of how quickly situations can deteriorate in the bush, even on well-trodden trails. For Australians, it was a stark reminder that being prepared, knowing how to steer and staying in touch are vital when you’re out in the sticks.
Major breakthrough during the renewed search
In December 2025, a privately organised search yielded a crucial piece of evidence. Police later confirmed it belonged to Celine Cremer. This was the first real advancement since her disappearance. The phone’s discovery prompted Tasmania Police to take another look at the case, allowing for more concentrated searches in the area. The phone’s recovery sparked renewed optimism that Celine’s last known whereabouts could be clarified.
Additional items found during later searches
After the phone was found, searchers also came across a water bottle and a makeshift poncho in the nearby bush. Investigators are now looking into whether these items are linked to Celine. Each piece of evidence has contributed to a more detailed understanding of what might have happened, though a final determination has yet to be made.
The challenges of Tasmania’s wilderness
The Philosopher Falls region lies in the isolated, heavily wooded north-west of Tasmania. The thick undergrowth, steep terrain, and lack of clear paths make navigating off-trail a genuine trial. Winter exacerbates these difficulties, with its cold temperatures, frequent rain, and short days, all of which heighten the danger of hypothermia. Even experienced hikers can easily lose their bearings in these environments, particularly if they’re relying exclusively on their phones for guidance.
What’s happening now in the investigation?
Now that physical evidence has been found, Tasmania Police are still analysing data and concentrating their search efforts on specific areas identified by GPS data. The aim is to piece together Celine’s last known movements and, hopefully, bring some closure to her family. Authorities have made it clear that every new piece of information is significant, even years after someone goes missing.
Conclusion
Celine Cremer’s disappearance is still one of Tasmania’s most tragic and intricate missing-person cases. From a routine bushwalk near Philosopher Falls to years of ambiguity and renewed scrutiny, her story has profoundly affected Australia.
As investigations persist, Celine’s case stands as a stark reminder of the dangers of venturing into remote areas and the necessity of preparation, vigilance and reverence for the Australian environment. Her story will be remembered by Australians and international visitors alike, and the hope persists that definitive answers will eventually surface.
