Updated: Search Underway for Tara Rawnsley in North Queensland Bush
A coordinated search and rescue operation is underway in North Queensland for a 21-year-old woman, Tara Rawnsley, who has not been seen or heard from since yesterday afternoon. Family members reported that she last made contact at 2:15 pm (AEST), but police have not disclosed the nature of that contact. Authorities are treating her disappearance as urgent, with investigators hoping to locate her before conditions deteriorate in the bushland around the Haughton River area.
The Search Area and Response
Police have tasked specialist resources to the scene, including the State Emergency Service (SES) and a police helicopter, to search the bushland near Bill Britt Road in Upper Haughton. The terrain in this part of North Queensland can be challenging, with dense scrub and uneven ground that can slow progress for ground teams.
Issues of weather and terrain can complicate a search, so authorities are employing a layered approach with aerial scans complemented by on-the-ground searches. It’s believed Tara may be on foot or possibly travelling in a black Polaris Ranger ATV, which could broaden the search parameters.
What We Know About Tara Rawnsley
Tara is described as Caucasian, about 175 cm tall with a slim build, blonde hair and blue eyes. At the time of her disappearance, she was wearing shorts and a t-shirt. Police are asking anyone who has seen a person matching her description, or who may have information about her movements, to come forward immediately.
How You Can Help
If you have information that could assist the search, contact local police with any details you might have about Tara’s whereabouts or her activities since yesterday afternoon. Even seemingly small details—such as a sighting of a vehicle, a pathway she may have used, or a location she was frequenting—can aid investigators who are working to locate her quickly and safely.
What to Expect Next
Authorities will provide updates as the search progresses. Residents and visitors in North Queensland are urged to stay vigilant, keep to well-traveled routes, and report any relevant information to the appropriate authorities. The investigation remains active and ongoing as search teams cover the area around the Haughton River.
Public Alerts and Information
For the latest developments on this case and other breaking news in the region, keep an eye on official police statements and local news outlets. Community cooperation is crucial in search operations like this, and those with information are encouraged to come forward promptly to help bring Tara home safely.
Note: This article summarizes information from police and emergency services. The situation may evolve as the search continues, and new details may be released by authorities.
