The recovered bones came from dense bushland inaccessible to earlier helicopter searches, and investigators believe they belong to Cremer based on expert input.

Authorities announced that searches around the Arthur River would be terminated and a coroner’s report would proceed to formally determine the identity.

DNA testing supported the provisional identification, with investigators noting the death likely resulted from misadventure as Cremer became disoriented during the walk.

Cremer disappeared on June 17, 2023, while bushwalking near Waratah in northwestern Tasmania; her car was later found at the trailhead.

The remains were discovered near the Arthur River, within the broader disappearance area, with authorities confirming provisional identification after DNA testing and expert analyses.

A Belgian tourist, 31-year-old Celine Cremer, has been provisionally identified as the person whose remains were found along a Tasmanian hiking route near Philosopher Falls, about 300 km northwest of Hobart.

The investigation included extensive search and rescue efforts, supported by partner agencies and volunteers, with ongoing public assistance.

Cremer’s family had awaited confirmation since the discovery was first reported, seeking closure and clarity from authorities.

Private funding supported a resumed December 2025 search that yielded items linked to Cremer, including her phone near Philosopher Falls and later bones, teeth, a Honda car key, and clothing in early 2026.

February searches resumed after human remains were found near Cremer’s vanishing point, with a specialist team and volunteers covering dense bushland, including a 350-meter stretch of the Arthur River.

There will be no further Arthur River searches, as the provisional identification advances toward formal confirmation.

Tasmania Police described the expert findings as compelling and extended condolences to Cremer’s family, thanking community members, search and rescue personnel, and volunteers across multiple search phases.