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Missing Teen Hiker Found After Eight Days
Almost 100 Australian Defence Force members joined the search, as police and volunteers continued to scour steep bushland for the missing 18-year-old.
Nearly 100 Australian Defence Force personnel joined the search for missing 18-year-old Lily Hooper in Nattai National Park, marking one week since she disappeared during a hiking trip.
Approximately 200 personnel from the State Emergency Service, Fire and Rescue NSW, and VRA Rescue are scouring the bushland using trail bikes, horses, dogs, and helicopters. Police discovered Hooper's car at Bonnum Pic Walking Trail on the evening she went missing.
Army instructor Gordon Dedman noted the terrain features steep ravines and thick bush, though the availability of creek water aids the experienced bushwalker's survival chances. "First-aid issues and clothing are the two big things," he said.
Hooper's family said they "desperately" want to find the teenager, thanking emergency services for their continued commitment to the search throughout the day and night. The public has been asked not to join the professional operation.
Reservists from the 5th Brigade stationed at Holsworthy Barracks in Sydney joined the effort, bringing specialized terrain knowledge to the multi-agency operation. Search teams have been working across the rugged national park for the past week.