A search is continuing for an elderly South Australian couple who failed to return from a day trip in north-west Tasmania, with police urging the public to keep an eye out for their vehicle as concern grows for their welfare.
Peter, 79, and Clementina, 81, were staying with relatives in Milabena, about 25 kilometres west of Wynyard, when they left at around 2.30pm on Tuesday, 18 August.
They were planning to spend the day exploring the Burnie, Ulverstone and Penguin areas before returning to their relatives’ home that evening.
They did not return and have not been heard from since.
Tasmania Police has now entered a second day of searching for the couple, deploying police search and rescue personnel, vehicles, quad bikes and the Westpac Rescue helicopter to assist with the search.
Inspector Anthea Maingay said police were following up every possible lead as they worked to bring Peter and Clementina home to their family.
“Yesterday the search concentrated on checking local tourist spots and we are following up every possible lead to bring them home to their family,” Inspector Maingay said.
Police believe the couple are travelling in their silver Honda CRV, which has South Australian registration plates S744ACB.
They are expected to be somewhere in the Penguin, Gawler or Gunns Plains areas.
For anyone travelling through the region, spotting the vehicle could be crucial.
Peter is described as being of solid build, between 5’4″ and 5’6″ tall, with grey hair, glasses and no facial hair. He was last seen wearing New Balance sneakers, a navy blue hoodie and navy blue tracksuit pants.
Clementina is also of solid build and between 5’4″ and 5’6″ tall. She has grey hair and wears glasses. She was last seen wearing a green sherpa-lined hoodie, blue or black pants and black lace-up shoes.
Police and the couple’s family are concerned for their welfare.
While search teams continue working through the area, members of the public can also play an important role by remaining alert, particularly if travelling around Penguin, Gawler, Gunns Plains or surrounding areas.
Anyone who believes they may have seen Peter or Clementina, or their silver Honda CRV, should contact Tasmania Police on 131 444.
Police have asked people to quote ESCAD 469-18082026 when providing information.
If you are travelling through the region, take a moment to check vehicles and roadside areas around you. A sighting, even one that seems insignificant, could provide police with another piece of the puzzle and help reunite the couple with their family.
With the search now continuing into a second day, police are asking the community to remain vigilant and report anything that could assist investigators.
