Source : Perth Now news
The search for a missing 18-year-old girl is resuming in rugged terrain in a NSW national park.
Lily Hooper, 18, left Oakdale in Sydney’s southwest about 8am on Wednesday after telling family she was going hiking in the nearby Nattai National Park.
Ms Hooper did not return in the evening and could not be reached, despite having sent messages from the park earlier in the day.
A multi-agency search has since found her car near the Bonnum Pic trailhead.
The state’s police, SES and fire services have not found any further signs of the teen.
Hume Police crime manager Detective Inspector Benjamin Bowles said on Friday authorities were concerned for Ms Hooper’s safety.
However, he remained optimistic and said Ms Hooper was an experienced hiker.
“We have not been able to fully confirm what supplies (Ms Hooper) had with her at the time but we are still hopeful that we will be able to locate her safe and sound,” he said.
“We don’t have any information to suggest that this is anything other than an overdue hiker.”
Helicopters and drones and specialist rescuers including trail-bike riders have been involved in the search.
Defence force personnel also joined efforts on Friday.
NSW Premier Chris Minns told reporters he was “praying for good news”.
“Our heart goes out to that young walker’s family,” he said.
“We know this must be heartbreaking and incredibly anxious.”
Police have appealed for any members of the public with information to make contact.
Ms Hooper is described as about 175cm tall, with a slim build, blonde hair and blue eyes.
She was last seen wearing a shirt and shorts.
