news 19 August 2026 Nile Post
Missing Teen Hiker Found Deceased in Australian National Park
An eight-day search for a missing Sydney teenager, 18-year-old Lily Hooper, concluded tragically with the discovery of her body in the Southern Highlands of Australia. Initial reports of her being found alive were later corrected by authorities. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/365273/missing-teen-hiker-found-dead-in-australian-bush-after-eight-day-search
The search for 18-year-old Lily Hooper, who went missing last week, ended in sorrow with the discovery of her body. Hooper had set out for a walk in Sydney’s Nattai National Park on August 12th and was reported missing by her family later that evening when she did not return.
Her car was located at the trailhead of a difficult path within the park, fueling concerns for her safety.
Authorities found the body on Thursday morning in the Southern Highlands. There was a period of confusion surrounding Hooper’s condition, with initial unconfirmed reports suggesting she had been found alive, even reaching the state’s premier, Chris Minns. However, Minns later issued a correction, confirming that Lily’s body had been found.
“This is obviously devastating, and I’m profoundly sad for her family and for all those concerned,” Minns stated, also offering an apology for the misinformation. The extensive search effort involved numerous agencies and personnel, including multiple NSW Police Force units, the Rural Fire Service, the National Parks and Wildlife Service, and nearly 100 members of the Australian Defence Force.