Elderly hiker found dead during search and rescue in Tasmania’s north

A late-night search and rescue has ended in tragedy in Tasmania’s north with the grim discovery of an elderly bushwalker. LATEST DETAILS >>

• Pedestrian killed on Brooker Highway
• ‘We need to acknowledge these rivers are in danger’

An elderly hiker was found dead last night after a search and rescue attempt in Tasmania’s north.

Police were alerted by the family of a 77-year-old Devonport he had not returned from a day long walking expedition in the Kimberly area.

The man was walk alone but was described as an experienced walker who knew the area and tracks well.

Tasmania police said a friend of the family began searching the tracks and found the vehicle and a pushbike he was also using.

Police Search and Rescue began a walking party search along a number of tracks in this location.

A family friend discovered the man dead on the ridgeline track in the Kimberly’s Lookout area.

The Westpac Rescue Helicopter used to assist Search and Rescue members with retrieval of the decease due to the rough terrain

Devonport Police described the event as “devastating” and offered condolences to the friends and family of the hiker.

Police will now prepare a report for the coroner.

Follow @jackevansreport