An urgent search is underway in Australia for 18-year-old Lily Hooper, an experienced bushwalker who disappeared while hiking alone through rugged wilderness in New South Wales.

Lily left her home in Oakdale at around 8 a.m. Wednesday, August 12, telling her family she was going hiking in Nattai National Park, in the Southern Highlands southwest of Sydney. She had been messaging family members during the hike, but they were unable to contact her later that evening.

Her car was found — but Lily was nowhere to be seen
Lily’s vehicle was later discovered near the Bonnum Pic Walking Trail along Wanganderry Road.

That immediately triggered a major search operation across the surrounding wilderness.

Police, specialist rescue officers, SES volunteers, ambulance crews, firefighters, drones and helicopters have all joined the effort. Australian Defence Force personnel have also now joined the search as authorities enter the third day of the operation.

The terrain is proving difficult, with rescuers searching through extensive and rugged bushland.

Police remain hopeful
Despite the growing concern, police said there is currently no information suggesting foul play.

Detective Inspector Benjamin Bowles said Lily is an experienced bushwalker and that she had her mobile phone with her when she disappeared. However, authorities have not been able to determine exactly what supplies she had with her.

Police have described Lily as approximately 165 cm tall, medium build, with brown hair and brown eyes.

Her family has made an emotional appeal for information as the search continues.

Her aunt, Sheridan Munro, said the family was desperately trying to find her.

Hundreds of rescuers keep searching
The operation now involves multiple agencies working across the national park, including NSW Police Rescue, PolAir, SES, NSW Ambulance, Fire and Rescue NSW and Rural Fire Service drones.

Search teams are using aircraft, trail bikes and ground crews to cover areas that are difficult to access on foot.

Police have stressed that they remain very hopeful Lily will be found safe.