Urgent Public Appeal: Victoria Police Seek Information on Missing Six-Year-Old Boy Charlie from Mernda

Melbourne — Victoria Police have launched an urgent appeal for public assistance to locate a missing six-year-old boy named Charlie, who has not been seen since Christmas Eve in the northern suburb of Mernda.

Authorities are increasingly concerned for Charlie’s welfare due to his young age and the length of time he has been missing. He was last observed on December 24 in the Mernda area, accompanied by a family member. Police have not released additional details about the circumstances surrounding his disappearance to preserve the integrity of the investigation.

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Residential streets and community areas in Mernda, the suburb where Charlie was last seen on December 24.

Charlie is described as being approximately 140cm tall with short brown hair. He was last seen wearing a black hooded jumper over charcoal pants, paired with black sneakers and distinctive blue headphones.

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Illustrative images showing clothing similar to Charlie’s last known outfit: black hooded jumper, charcoal pants, black sneakers, and blue headphones.

To assist in the search, police have publicly shared a recent image of Charlie. “We are asking the community to take a close look at the photo and description,” a Victoria Police spokesperson stated. “Any sighting or information, no matter how minor it may seem, could be crucial in bringing Charlie home safely.”

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Generic representations of a young boy matching Charlie’s description, used here as police have released his actual image for public identification.

Mernda, part of the City of Whittlesea about 30km north of Melbourne’s central business district, is a growing family-friendly suburb with parks, schools, and shopping precincts. Residents have rallied in support, sharing the appeal widely on social media and local networks. Ground searches, including door-to-door inquiries, have been ongoing, supplemented by reviews of local CCTV footage.

Mernda, VIC 3754 – Suburb Profile & Local Reviews

A typical community scene in Mernda, highlighting the suburban setting central to the ongoing search efforts.

The investigation is being coordinated by officers from Mernda Police Station, with support from specialist missing persons units. Police are examining potential sightings along major roads like Plenty Road and public transport routes, given the holiday period’s increased movement.

Members of the public who believe they have seen Charlie are advised not to approach him but to immediately contact Mernda Police Station on (03) 9216 1200 or triple zero (000) for emergencies. Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.

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Cases involving missing children are prioritised by Victoria Police, often resolving quickly through community tips. With New Year’s celebrations approaching, authorities hope heightened awareness will generate new leads.

Charlie’s family is cooperating with police and has requested privacy during this distressing time. Support resources are available through police victim services.

This appeal underscores the importance of community vigilance, especially during the festive season when routines change. Victoria Police remain committed to exhausting all avenues to ensure Charlie’s safe return.