Search Intensifies for 18-Year-Old Hiker Missing in NSW Bushland

Emergency crews are ramping up efforts to locate

Emergency crews are ramping up efforts to locate an 18-year-old woman who vanished during a solo hike in New South Wales' Southern Highlands, with fresh teams deployed to the rugged terrain on Saturday morning.

Lily Hooper was last seen leaving her home in Sydney's south-west around 8 a.m. on Wednesday, August 12, after informing relatives she planned to trek through Nattai National Park, situated northwest of Mittagong. She has not been heard from since.

The disappearance has triggered a multi-agency search operation, with police, volunteers, and specialized rescue units scouring the park's dense bushland and steep valleys. On Saturday, additional personnel arrived to join the effort, focusing on areas not yet thoroughly examined.

Authorities are urging anyone who may have seen

Authorities are urging anyone who may have seen Hooper or has information about her whereabouts to come forward. Her family has expressed deep concern, describing her as an experienced hiker who was well-prepared for the conditions.

The search continues as weather conditions in the region remain challenging, with forecasters predicting cooler temperatures and possible showers over the weekend. Police have not ruled out any scenarios and are appealing to the public for assistance in bringing her home safely.