Human remains found in the Arthur River have been “provisionally identified” as those of missing Belgian backpacker Celine Cremer, according to Tasmania Police.
Commander Nathan Johnston said expert reports had “provided compelling evidence” that remains recently discovered in the area were likely to be those of Ms Cremer.
He said the provisionally identification had been made with the permission of her family.
“While this … will not ease their loss, we hope the outcome will provide them with some measure of clarity and closure,” he said.
The 31-year-old disappeared on a walk at Philosopher Falls, near Waratah in Tasmania’s north west in June 2023.
Her car was found at the trail head at the time, but no further sign of her was seen until a private search party set out in December and found her mobile phone.
A filmmaker’s role in the search for missing Belgian tourist Celine Cremer
Jarrod Boys, a member of that search party, then set out on a solo search of the Arthur River downstream from the waterfall in January.
He found human remains and alerted Tasmania Police, who found further remains and other items believed to belong to Ms Cremer during subsequent searches.
At the time police believed the items were linked to her disappearance, but stressed that further forensic investigation was required before anything could be confirmed.
Police say the remains have been “provisionally identified” as belonging to Celine Cremer. (Supplied: Tasmania Police)
Commander Johnston said a report would be prepared for the coroner, who will make an official determination of the identity of the remains.
“We want to thank community members for their ongoing support and interest in Celine’s case,” Commander Johnston said.
“I want to acknowledge the extensive efforts of search and rescue personnel, partner agencies and volunteers who dedicated significant time and resources during the many search phases.”