Tasmania wilderness search intensifies for missing 67-year-old Peter Willoughby as medical condition sparks grave fears
- Desperate search for Peter Willoughby enters fourth day as police, SES, and volunteers battle treacherous conditions in Hollybank bushland.
- Chilling concerns for the 67-year-old’s welfare grow as he remains missing, with police revealing he suffers from a medical condition that could cause disorientation.
- Rescuers face difficulties as heavy rain and strong winds force the Westpac Rescue Helicopter to remain grounded, hindering search efforts.
In a desperate bid to locate missing 67-year-old Peter Willoughby, a massive search party of 50 personnel has been scouring the treacherous Hollybank bushland in Tasmania’s north-east, braving challenging weather conditions that have hindered their efforts.
The fourth day of the search has seen the team, comprising police, SES, and mounted search and rescue volunteers, facing strong winds and heavy rain, which have grounded the Westpac Rescue Helicopter and reduced the effectiveness of police drones.
Peter, who suffers from a medical condition that could cause disorientation, was last seen on Sunday when he wandered off into the bush to retrieve a bogged vehicle. “Given the period of time he has been missing and the challenging weather in the area, there are obvious concerns for Mr Willoughby’s welfare,” Tasmania Police Northern District Inspector Nick Clark said.
In a heartfelt appeal, Inspector Clark urged anyone with information to come forward, saying, “We always remain hopeful that we may find him. We will continue the search into this evening and again tomorrow, focusing on the vicinity of where he was last seen and some new areas south of the general search area.”
Peter was wearing a dark blue jumper, blue jeans, and sneakers when he vanished. His family and friends are anxiously waiting for news of his safe return.
As the search party battles against the elements, the community is holding its collective breath, hoping for a miracle that will bring Peter back home safely.