UPDATE: The search for missing 62-year-old Mark intensifies as a new witness has come forward on the sixth day of the operation. Mark was last seen on August 17 at the Frenchman’s Creek campground in Victoria’s Big River State Forest. Authorities confirm he was spotted around 8:30 AM that morning, reportedly planning to walk to Woods Point.
The urgent search efforts have escalated following the witness’s claim of encountering Mark on Big River Road between 8:40 AM and 8:50 AM on the same day. “The witness reported seeing a man walking approximately 250 meters west of Frenchman’s Campsite,” said a spokesperson from Victoria Police.
As temperatures drop and the search extends into the weekend, the situation grows more critical. Mark, who does not have camping gear, is at risk due to the cold conditions. Search teams, including the dog squad, solo unit, search and rescue squad, and local police, are mobilized to comb the Big River State Forest and surrounding areas.
Mark is described as Caucasian, around 183 cm tall, with a medium build, short grey hair, and a grey beard and moustache. He was last seen wearing a light grey and dark blue jumper, a blue zip-up jacket, white tracksuit pants, and black sneakers. Notably, a large striped duffel bag belonging to him was found between the Camp Track and Frenchman’s Spur Track on August 20.
Authorities are urging anyone who may have seen Mark or encountered him in the Big River State Forest area to contact triple-0 (000) immediately. Additionally, anyone with further information is asked to reach out to Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000.
The community is rallying for Mark’s safe return, and the emotional stakes are high as family and friends await any news. As the search continues, every moment counts. Stay tuned for the latest updates as this developing story unfolds.
