Tasmanian Man Found Alive After Four Days Lost in Bushland
A 32-year-old man from Longford, Tasmania, has been located alive and well after an extensive four-day search in the rugged bushland near Launceston. Corey Chugg was reportedly collecting firewood at Mount Barrow, near Nunamara, on Sunday when he became separated from his friend. He was officially reported missing to Tasmania Police on Monday afternoon.
The dramatic rescue concluded around 12:30 pm today, with police confirming Mr Chugg was discovered in a creek bed at the base of a steep incline, situated on the fringe of the designated search area. According to a police statement, Mr Chugg managed to alert searchers to his presence by responding to their calls.
He was found to be suffering from a foot injury and had been significantly weakened by exposure to the elements, having been without essential supplies like food, water, and warm clothing since Sunday night. Paramedics were on hand to assess Mr Chugg’s condition before he was winched to safety by a rescue helicopter. He was subsequently transported to the Launceston General Hospital for necessary medical treatment.
Favourable Conditions Aided Survival
Tasmania Police Inspector Aleena Crack attributed Mr Chugg’s survival to favourable weather conditions over the preceding days. “Mr Chugg has been really fortunate the last few days,” Inspector Crack stated. “The conditions were quite mild, up until last night where it started to get a little bit colder. Thankfully there was water around, and he’s been able to keep himself busy, occupied, and as well as possible.”
Inspector Crack also conveyed that Mr Chugg expressed profound gratitude upon being found.
Ongoing Enquiries, No Suspicious Circumstances
While the immediate priority was Mr Chugg’s well-being and medical care, Inspector Crack indicated that further inquiries would be made regarding the circumstances of his being in the bushland and the nature of his separation from his companion.
“We’ll make further enquiries as to the purpose of Corey and his friend being in the bush,” she explained. “At this point in time, I’m not able to comment. I think it’s important he gets his medical treatment first, before I start posing questions to him.”
Mr Chugg’s friend has been actively cooperating with the police throughout the search and subsequent investigations. “Corey’s friend has been helping us throughout and been assisting us with our enquiries,” Inspector Crack confirmed. “At this point in time, I’m not going to comment as to the reason, until we’ve spoken a bit further with Corey himself.”
Despite the need for follow-up investigations, Inspector Crack was clear that the situation is not being treated as suspicious.
Comprehensive Search Efforts
The successful recovery of Mr Chugg was the result of a significant deployment of resources. Ground crews comprising both police officers and dedicated volunteers worked tirelessly, alongside a police helicopter and drone unit, to locate him.
“We’ve poured a lot of resources into trying to find a missing person, which we would at any time … time and money is not important when you’re trying to save someone’s life,” Inspector Crack emphasised. “It’s always a great relief when we find somebody alive and well. Much better than any alternative outcome, and everybody is really happy with how it’s gone today.”
Yesterday, police had provided details that the two men had entered the bushland near Nunamara, an area situated approximately 20 kilometres north-east of Launceston. Their initial plan was to undertake the excursion together and return home. However, at some point during their outing, they became separated, and only Mr Chugg failed to return as planned.
Inspector Crack also revealed that Mr Chugg had his mobile phone with him during the incident, and that “phone pings” played a crucial role in narrowing down the extensive search area.
