A reported potential sighting of missing woman Lucinda on Monday afternoon has widened search parameters in Neerim South today.
Previous searches from Sunday to Wednesday covered the area around Lucinda's family home near the McDougal Rd area, however, a sighting reported on Wednesday afternoon of her standing on the side of the road at Durhams Rd and Mizpah Settlement Rd on Monday at about 4pm has emergency services expanding the search area.
The witness contacted police yesterday after hearing about 24-year-old Lucinda on the news. After hearing the report, the witness accessed an image of Lucinda online and told police they believed it was the same person they saw on Monday afternoon.
Inspector Peter Fusinato said the area Lucinda was potentially seen in was about 2km from the original search area and police were taking the sighting "very seriously".
“It seems to be credible information that fits the description," he said.
Today, the number of searchers was more than 30 people, as well as search dogs.
Insp Fusinato said searches on foot were being conducted today in the newly identified search area, and search dogs were being used in the original search location.
“Most of that is rural property, not forested area, which makes it a bit easier," he said.
“Lucinda may not want to come home. Obviously, she was dropped off in that area for a reason… however Lucinda may not want her family to know she was home.”
“She may be missing of her own volition or unfortunately has hurt herself or otherwise
“We are exploring all those avenues and at this stage, we really have no answers in regards to what her intentions were.”
Insp Fusinato urged locals in the Old Telegraph Rd Crossover area, Buln Buln East, Buln Buln and the Warragul area to check their properties and buildings for Lucinda or signs that she could have been there.
"Just be mindful that she may have wandered onto your properties," he said.
“If you’ve been in that area and you feel you might have witnessed or seen someone that fits the description of Lucinda, please give us a call and we’ll have a look at that and try to confirm or deny it.”
“No matter how small, if you believe it’s a potential sighting make sure you call 000 or ring the Warragul Police Station or Crime Stoppers.”
Insp Fusinato said police have had a survivability assessment completed, and the period for survival in the area has "probably passed" without access to food and water.
“We’ve spoken to the family in regards to that, they are very aware of that situation, but we’ll continue on today and we’ll certainly go into tomorrow – we think that’s probably exhausted as far as the search going," he said.
“But as far as the ongoing investigation, whilst we haven’t located Lucinda, that will be ongoing.”
SES members have stepped about from the search for Lucinda today, and the bushwalkers involved in the search have taken a rest day and may return tomorrow.
Lucinda is about 165cm tall with a thin build and blonde hair.
Police and family have concerns for her welfare.
Anyone who sights Lucinda or has information is urged to call Warragul Police Station on 5622 7111.