BREAKTHROUGH IN TWO-YEAR MYSTERY: Private Search Team Finds Missing Hiker Celine Cremer’s Phone in Area Police ‘Extensively Searched’

By National Correspondent, Sarah Mitchell December 21, 2025

In a stunning development that has reignited hope and scrutiny, a private search team led by Australian investigator Ken Gamble discovered the mobile phone of missing Belgian backpacker Celine Cremer in dense Tasmanian rainforest – just hours into their operation and in terrain Tasmania Police admit was previously combed extensively.

abc.net.au

abc.net.au

The 31-year-old experienced hiker vanished on June 17, 2023, during what was intended as a short walk to Philosopher Falls near Waratah in Tasmania’s rugged north-west. Cremer, who had been solo travelling the island for six months, parked her SUV at the trailhead and set off in winter conditions. She was reported missing nine days later when she failed to catch a ferry back to the mainland.

theguardian.com

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Initial police searches, involving helicopters, drones, and ground teams, lasted two weeks but were suspended in July 2023 after experts deemed survival impossible amid sub-zero temperatures, heavy rain, and snow. Despite follow-up efforts, no trace of Cremer was found until this month’s renewed private initiative.

Organised by Cremer’s friends and family, the search included four of her Belgian companions who flew to Australia. Working pro bono, Gamble – a renowned private investigator – coordinated around 30-40 volunteers, including locals and SES members. On December 13, mere hours after starting, volunteer Tony Hage spotted a rusted purple Samsung phone approximately 60-100 metres from Cremer’s last known GPS coordinates, off the marked track.

7news.com.au

abc.net.au

“The discovery was emotional – excitement and tears all round,” said filmmaker Rob Parsons, documenting the effort. Friends confirmed the device via its serial number. Tasmania Police quickly verified it as Cremer’s and took possession for forensic analysis, hoping to extract data despite weather damage.

Inspector Andrew Hanson acknowledged the find occurred in an “extensively searched” area, prompting police to formally rejoin the operation. “Phone data and location support the theory Celine left the track using an app for a direct route back to her car as daylight faded,” he said. “She likely dropped the phone and became disoriented in dense terrain.”

discovertasmania.com.au

Philosopher Falls | Nature and wildlife | Discover Tasmania

The breakthrough expanded the search zone, as the phone’s location suggests Cremer ventured further than previously assumed. Days later, volunteers uncovered a water bottle and a garbage bag – possibly used as a makeshift poncho – about 300 metres away. These items are undergoing DNA testing.

tasmaniantimes.com

Cadaver Dog Unable To Locate Celine Cremer – Tasmanian Times

Wild weather – rain, hail, and snow – forced suspension of ground searches over the weekend, but operations are set to resume Monday with bolstered police support. Gamble remains optimistic: “Morale is high; we’re convinced her remains are nearby.”

Cremer’s family, in regular contact with police, expressed renewed hope amid heartbreak. Her mother in Belgium was informed immediately.

The case has drawn criticism of initial police efforts, with some questioning how the phone evaded detection. Hanson defended the challenges: “Treacherous terrain and extreme weather – we’re committed to answers.”

As forensic results loom, the Philosopher Falls area – a picturesque but unforgiving rainforest trail – continues to hold its secrets. For Cremer’s loved ones, the phone’s discovery offers the first tangible link in over two years, potentially guiding searchers to closure.

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