A ground search crew is being deployed to the Eastern Arthur Range this afternoon as the search for an overdue bushwalker in Tasmania’s Southwest continues.

Search Controller Ben Cunningham said the 27-year-old man from New South Wales set off from the Huon River Campground last Tuesday about 2pm.

“The man had told friends he was planning to finish the Eastern Arthur Range Traverse near West Picton Road on Saturday or Sunday, but has not been in contact as planned,” he said.

“Police were called shortly after 4pm yesterday, after a friend reported he was overdue and had not been in touch since Friday.”

“Initial checks were undertaken yesterday, and aerial searches began this morning once weather conditions allowed.”

“A ground search crew of four police, two wilderness paramedics and four SES volunteers is being deployed this afternoon.”

“The Eastern Arthur Range Traverse is challenging, and would take most experienced bushwalkers six to nine days to complete.”

“While he is reported to be an experienced bushwalker, we don’t believe the man is in possession of a Personal Locator Beacon.”

Anyone with further information is asked to contact police on 131 444 and quote ESCAD 247-22072024.