Authorities Scramble to Find Missing Bushwalkers in Tasmania

As of October 15th, 2025, Tasmanian authorities are engaged in a frantic search for two missing bushwalkers in separate parts of the state. Peter Willoughby, a 76-year-old man, has been missing for 10 days after wandering into the dense Hollybank forest reserve in the state's northeast. Meanwhile, 30-year-old Daryl Fong went missing over the weekend while hiking in Mount Field national park in the southeast.

Police have resumed searching for Willoughby, who was reported missing on October 5th after becoming separated from a group retrieving his stuck vehicle. Authorities say they hold "grave fears" for Willoughby's welfare given the length of time he has been missing and the inclement weather conditions in the area. Separately, a search is also underway for Fong, who texted a friend early on Sunday saying he was delayed and planned to seek shelter overnight. His vehicle was found in the Mount Mawson carpark, where he had started his hike.

Rescue teams are facing significant challenges in their efforts to locate the missing men, including snow, rain, poor visibility, and near-gale force winds. Despite extensive searching over the past 10 days, neither Willoughby nor Fong have been found, leaving authorities deeply concerned for their safety.