Lily Hooper, 18, was last seen leaving her Sydney home for a hike a week ago. Photo / NSW SES
The search for a missing teen hiker has entered its seventh day as her “devastated” family hope for her safe return.
Lily Hooper was last seen about 8am last Wednesday as she left her Oakdale home for a planned hike in Sydney’s Nattai National Park, Nine News reported.
The 18-year-old’s
family reported her missing when she failed to return home by 10pm that day.
While her car has since been located near the Bonnum Pic Walking Trail, there has been no sign of Hooper.
In a new statement shared by New South Wales Police, Hooper’s family said they were “devastated” by her disappearance.
“Our family is absolutely devastated that our beloved daughter Lily is missing.
“We would like to thank all the emergency services and volunteers for their support and continued commitment to the search, not only during the day but throughout the night.”
Hooper’s family said they “desperately” want to find the teenager as search teams continue to scour the bushland.
“We desperately want to bring Lily home safe, and we ask, as the search continues, to keep our family and Lily in your thoughts.
“We also ask for privacy and understanding as our family navigates this unimaginable situation.”
The statement asked members of the public not to join the professional search effort following a series of offers.
Nearly 100 Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel have now been deployed to assist the multi-agency search effort, which involves trail bikes, horses, dogs and helicopters.
Army survival instructor Gordon Dedman told ABC News that while the search area presents significant challenges, ADF soldiers will be familiar with the locality.
“It’s very steep ravines, thick bush, and it can get really cold in winter,” he said.
