Hopes to find missing Tassie hiker fading
Rescuers say hopes of finding a missing 76-year-old hiker in Tasmania's remote south west are fading, as crews launch another air search.
James Hugh McLean, of Flinders Island, was last seen about November 12 before setting off on a one-month walk in the south-west region.
The experienced hiker was trekking the Huon Track walk in the Tahune area and planning to walk to Melaleuca and surrounding areas, before returning on December 13.
However, Mr McLean did not reach his food drop in Melaleuca and failed to return home.
Police on Wednesday launched a helicopter search, covering tracks in and out of the area.
Acting Inspector Andrew O'Dwyer said more than 100km of walking tracks leading in and out of the area had been covered by both air and on the ground during a week-long search.
"Sadly, police hold grave fears for Mr McLean. Given the length of time he has been missing, the lack of food supplies and the difficulty of the terrain, the hopes of finding Mr McLean alive are fading," he said.
"We remain in close contact with Mr McLean's family and our thoughts continue to be with them at this difficult time."
