Wattle Ridge, Bargo: Tragic development as body of missing bushwalker is found two weeks after he mysteriously vanished in bushland
A bushwalker has been tragically found dead after disappearing almost two weeks earlier during what was supposed to be a one-day walk.
Police announced on Thursday afternoon that the search for 57-year-old Darren Banks had ended after his body was found in bushland south of Campbeltown, in Sydney’s south-west.
He was last seen in good health and well prepared for the walk at a house in Macquarie Fields, south-west Sydney, about 4pm on Friday, March 15.
His family eexpected to return home the next day, but was instead reported missing the following Tuesday and could not be contacted for 13 days.
Police thanked the local community for their help in the search for Mr Banks and confirmed a report will be prepared for the coroner.
Darren Banks was in good health and well prepared for the walk. He was expected to return home the next day with plans to spend that weekend with family.
Police confirmed he had reached the hiking trail after finding his car 80km away last Thursday, near Starlights Trail in Wattle Ridge, south of Sydney, 15km west of Bargo.
It is understood that Mr Banks is familiar with the walking trail, but it is considered difficult terrain.
‘Now it’s quite a remote place deep in the bush. There’s not a lot of people out there,” Detective Inspector Andrew Mackay said.
However, there is significant access to fresh water and family said he was in “very good health” before leaving home two weeks ago.
SES crews have been assisting in the land search over the past week, although no trace has been found so far.
Detectives were able to track his movements before he left Macquarie Fields on Friday and say he visited the shopping center earlier that day.
“He did some shopping but there were no purchases that would assist our investigation,” Detective Mackay said.
Police confirmed he reached the hiking trail after finding his car last Thursday near the Starlights Trail in Wattle Ridge, 9 miles west of Bargo.
It is understood that Mr Banks is familiar with the walking trail, but it is considered difficult terrain
Police believe he was hiking towards Ahearn Lookout or the Emmets Flat camping area, about an hour south of Campbelltown.
Police have serious concerns for Darren’s welfare as it is considered characterless for him to have no contact with his family.
Darren is described as a white individual, medium build, approximately 180cm tall, with short brown hair and a beard with brown eyes.
Anyone who has been in the Starlight Trail area and seen Darren and his vehicle or has information regarding Darren’s whereabouts is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.