Skeleton found in South Gippsland waters remains a mystery

A MYSTERY skeleton found in waters off South Gippsland has not been identified despite DNA testing and matching to missing-persons records.

A MYSTERY skeleton found in waters off South Gippsland has not been identified despite DNA testing and matching to missing-persons records.

Snorkellers found the remains partially buried in sand close to the shore of Shallow Inlet, 150km southeast of Melbourne, on Christmas Day last year

The skeleton is that of a man but, eight months later, investigators have little more to go on.

The bones were covered in algae, indicating they had been in the water for some time.

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But it is not clear whether or not the skeleton is from the period before white settlement.

Testing of DNA extracted from the bones has not linked them to anyone on the law enforcement database.

There are no missing persons records from the area that are likely to be connected to the mystery remains.

Detective Leading Sen-Constable Syd Hadley of Wonthaggi Criminal Investigation Unit said the skeleton was submerged in an area south of a boat launch at the popular holiday destination.

It is thought improbable that the person came off a boat on the ocean side, which is linked to the inlet by a narrow mouth where there are strong tidal movements and, frequently, powerful swells.

“It’s hard to believe a body would end up there,” Sen-Constable Hadley said.

In 1999, another skeleton was found at Shallow Inlet by a young girl on Christmas holidays.

It is believed those remains, found on the waterway’s eastern shore, have not been identified.

Anyone able to help can phone Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit crimestoppersvic.com.au.