Desperate Search for Victorian Hiker Samuel Whitsed Enters Third Month as Fears Grow for His Safety on Remote WA Track
- WA Police are racing against time to find missing Victorian hiker Samuel Whitsed, last seen in February near the treacherous Bibbulmun track in WA’s south-west.
- Concerns for the 27-year-old’s welfare have grown as the search enters its third month, with police urging locals to check their properties and sheds for any sign of the experienced bushwalker.
- Whitsed’s family, who have been searching for him since he went out of contact, have revealed he has a history of taking shelter in rural sheds during long walks, fuelling hopes he may still be alive.
- As the investigation continues, police are piecing together Whitsed’s final movements, including a campsite found near the track and recovered camping equipment, but so far, there have been no further sightings.
The disappearance of Samuel Whitsed has left his family and police baffled, as the search for the 27-year-old Victorian hiker enters its third month in Western Australia’s remote south-west.
Whitsed, an experienced bushwalker, was last seen on February 18 in Armadale, near the starting point of the 1,000km Bibbulmun track, which stretches from Perth to Albany.
His family, who reported him missing after he failed to make contact, are growing increasingly desperate for news of his whereabouts.
Whitsed’s journey to WA from Victoria was not unusual for the keen outdoorsman, who has a history of long bushwalks and “living off the land”. However, this trip was the longest he had been out of contact with his family, sparking concerns for his welfare.
Senior Sergeant Rob Lewis, who is leading the investigation, said Whitsed was dropped off in the area after getting a lift from a man, and it is believed he was walking on Brookton Highway towards the Bibbulmun Track.
Whitsed’s family has revealed he had previously taken shelter in sheds on rural properties during bushwalking trips in Victoria, and they are holding onto hope that he may have done the same in WA.
“We’d also ask that anyone that’s got property along the track or along that space to check their outbuildings, check sheds just in case he has set up camp or taking shelter in one of their sheds,” Senior Sergeant Lewis said.
Police are urging locals to report any information, no matter how small, that may aid in the search.
As the search continues, police have found a campsite linked to Whitsed near the track and have recovered some of his camping equipment, but there have been no further sightings.
Whitsed is described as being between 170 and 180 centimetres tall, of a slim-medium build, with short brown hair and a beard and moustache. He was last seen wearing black trousers, a light-coloured T-shirt or jumper, and sandals.
Outdoor enthusiasts and locals are being warned to be vigilant and report any sign of Whitsed to police.
“If he is out there and he does happen to hear this, we’d ask that he reach out to police and just to let us know that he’s safe and well,” Senior Sergeant Lewis said.
Analysis: What This Means for Australia
The disappearance of Samuel Whitsed has highlighted the risks and challenges associated with long-distance bushwalking in remote areas of Australia.
As the country’s population grows and more people take to the outdoors, there is a growing need for education and awareness about the dangers of venturing into the wilderness unprepared.
Law enforcement agencies are also being stretched to their limits as they respond to an increasing number of missing persons cases in remote areas.
Security analysts say that the case of Samuel Whitsed serves as a reminder of the importance of preparedness and planning when venturing into the wilderness. “It’s crucial that people research their route, inform others of their plans, and carry adequate supplies and equipment,” said one analyst.
“The Australian wilderness can be unforgiving, and it’s essential that people respect the land and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.”
As the search for Whitsed continues, his family remains hopeful that he will be found safe and well. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of being prepared and aware of the risks when venturing into the Australian wilderness.
bushwalking safety missing persons Australian Federal Police
