A major search and rescue operation has been launched for 17-year-old William, who disappeared from a campsite near Walhalla East in regional Victoria.
William, from the Latrobe Valley, had travelled to Stoney Creek Road, near the T2 Track, with another teenager on Friday. The pair planned to camp for the weekend, but William went for a short walk to another part of the site after setting up camp and failed to return.
His friend searched the surrounding area without finding him. Police believe William may have become disorientated and lost his way in the terrain.
“Police and family members are growing increasingly concerned for Will,” officers said.
Police said their concerns were heightened because William was wearing only shorts and work boots when he went missing, while poor weather affected the area over the weekend.
A command post has been established in Cowwarr to coordinate the operation, involving police from Maffra, Sale, Rosedale, Morwell, Bairnsdale and the Gippsland motorcycle branch.
Personnel from the Public Order Response Team, Dog Squad, Mounted Branch and Search and Rescue Squad are involved, alongside State Emergency Services personnel.
Anyone with information about William’s whereabouts is urged to contact police.
