Tasmania Search Nightmare: Body of Missing Bushwalker Daryl Fong Found in Mount Field National Park After 7 Days of Searching Through Waist-Deep Snow and Gale-Force Winds
- Tasmania Police recover body of 30-year-old Hobart man in Mount Field National Park after extensive search efforts
- Daryl Fong went missing on October 11 during a solo day walk to capture photographs of the Tarn Shelf Circuit
- Search hampered by extreme weather conditions, including waist-deep snow, poor visibility, and gale-force winds
Daryl Fong, a passionate photographer from Hobart, set out on a solo day walk to capture the breathtaking scenery of the Tarn Shelf Circuit in Mount Field National Park on October 11. Tragically, the 30-year-old’s adventure took a devastating turn when he failed to return, sparking a massive seven-day search operation amid treacherous weather conditions.
On Tuesday evening, the Westpac Rescue Helicopter search and rescue team finally located and recovered the body of a male believed to be Daryl Fong in the national park. The discovery brings a somber end to the desperate search, which was repeatedly hampered by extreme weather conditions in the area.
In a heartbreaking development, Daryl’s housemate received a concerning call at 3am on October 12, with Daryl revealing he would seek shelter and stay in the park overnight. Despite the red flags, the search efforts were slowed by the challenging conditions, including waist-deep snow, poor visibility, and gale-force winds.
Tasmania Police Inspector Luke Home expressed his gratitude to all search crews, particularly the volunteers who worked tirelessly in these extreme conditions. “Their dedication and resilience are a vital part of our rescue capability and consistently go above and beyond,” he said.
Mount Field National Park, situated about an hour’s drive north-west of Hobart, is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and often snowy conditions. The Tarn Shelf Circuit, a 12-kilometre, grade-three walk, is a popular route among hikers and photographers, but its rugged terrain proved to be a daunting challenge for search teams.
A report will be prepared for the coroner, as the investigation into Daryl’s tragic death continues. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the unforgiving power of nature and the importance of prioritizing safety in the great outdoors.