Lost camper Australian teenage boy found alive after 6 days in Victoria bush
A search in rugged terrain
William had been camping with a friend when he left to get some equipment and did not return. His friend contacted police, prompting a search involving helicopters, specialist units and volunteers.
Found near Stoney Creek
An aerial search located William on Thursday morning near Stoney Creek, according to public broadcaster ABC. Rescuers first noticed a fishing tackle box, then saw him asleep on a rock in a dry riverbed.
Rescued and reunited
Flight officers were lowered by winch to retrieve William and take him to the command post, where he reunited with his mother. Police said he was in good spirits and, for the most part, good health.
His mother told Australian media she was “just over the moon he’s alive” and said he had stayed in one place while waiting to be rescued. Local media reported that William waved and pumped his fist as the helicopter woke him.
Key points
- William, 17, went missing while camping with a friend in Victoria.
- He was found near Stoney Creek after six days in the bush.
- Police said he had fallen beside a riverbed two days before his rescue.
- An aerial search team brought him to a command post to reunite with his mother.