Human remains found in a remote wilderness area have been ‘provisionally identified’ as those of a Belgian backpacker who disappeared without a trace almost three years ago.
Tasmania Police Commander Nathan Johnston revealed that expert reports have provided compelling evidence that the remains likely belong to Celine Cremer, who was last seen near Cradle Mountain in June 2023.
Her heartbroken family have since confirmed that they finally have some closure.
‘After almost three years of endless waiting, we finally have answers,’ her sister Amelie posted on Facebook on Friday morning.
‘DNA tests and dental expertise confirmed that everything matched Celine. These words are hard to write… but they also bring us immense relief.
‘Today, our hearts are upset, but at the same time. After all this time, Celine can finally go home. She will be able to rest in peace, surrounded by love that never left her side.
‘Celine, we never forgot you. Not one day, not one second. Your absence has left a huge void, but your smile, your energy and all the love you gave us live on within us. Today we bring you near us.’
Another family member added: ‘We know now that you are no longer where you were but you will always be in our hearts.
Belgian backpacker Celine Cremer was last seen near Cradle Mountain in Tasmania’s northwest on June 17, 2023
Human remains found in remote wilderness are believed to be of the Belgian backpacker
‘Never, I will forget the joy of life you communicated, your beautiful smile… and that laugh that still echoes in my ears.
‘You were an amazing little woman and despite your faults, you managed to move forward to live life to the fullest. For now, rest in peace beautiful.’
Ms Cremer was last seen in the Philosopher Falls area near Cradle Mountain in the state’s northwest on June 17, 2023.
The 31-year-old was reported missing by her family eight days later, sparking a major search involving police and SES ground crews, specialist swift water rescue personnel, drones and a helicopter.
Police believed the Belgian backpacker had set off on a walk and her car was found in the Falls car park a day after the missing person’s report was filed.
No further trace of Ms Cremer was found until a privately funded search resumed in December 2025, when members of the group located her phone near Philosopher Falls.
Search teams made a breakthrough in January after a bushwalker discovered bones on a stretch of Arthur River, about 2km from the tourist’s last known location.
Five bones, teeth, a Honda car key, and items of clothing were found during subsequent searches near the location.
The breakthrough comes two months after a privately funded search for Celine resumed
Ms Cremer’s family shared a heartbreaking tribute on Friday following the police update
Police believed the items were linked to Ms Cremer’s disappearance, but stressed that further forensic investigation was required.
The recent breakthroughs were made in an area of dense bushland that police only surveyed by helicopter in earlier searches.
‘Tasmania Police extends its sincere condolences to Ms Cremer’s family and loved ones,’ Commander Johnston said
‘While this provisional confirmation will not ease their loss, we hope the outcome will provide them with some measure of clarity and closure.’
Police will prepare a report for the coroner, who will officially determine the identity of the remains in their findings.
‘We want to thank community members for their ongoing support and interest in Celine’s case,’ Commander Johnston added.
‘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.’
No further searches are planned.
Search teams made a breakthrough in January after a bushwalker discovered bones on a stretch of Arthur River
No further searches of the Arthur River are planned
Ms Cremer’s family also thanked everyone involved in the search.
‘Thank you from the bottom of my heart to everyone who participated in the search and helped find her,’ her sister wrote.
‘Thanks also to our relatives for their support, respect and presence throughout these years. You have been essential.
‘We will update you as soon as we have more information regarding the funeral.’
