08/10/2025
The search for a missing Scottsdale man in rugged bushland near Hollybank has continued into its fourth day.
More than 50 search and rescue personnel, involving Tasmania Police, State Emergency Service, Ambulance Tasmania and Tasmania Mounted Search and Rescue resources were in the Hollybank area today in tough weather conditions.
Unfortunately, there has been no sign of missing Scottsdale man Peter Willoughby.
Search efforts will continue into this evening and will resume tomorrow, utilising Tasmania Police, Ambulance Tasmania and SES resources.
Mr Willoughby, 76, went missing in bushland about 2km from Hollybank on Sunday afternoon. He is being treated for a medical condition, which may result in him being disoriented.
He was wearing a dark blue jumper, blue jeans and sneakers at the time he went missing.
Extensive resources have been deployed since Sunday, with multiple search units today working through challenging weather conditions of wind and rain in the rugged and dense bush.
Helicopter resources could not be deployed due to poor weather and low visibility, while the effectiveness of police drones was hindered by wind and rain.
Tasmania Police Northern District Inspector Nick Clark said the search teams had worked hard to try and find Mr Willoughby.
“Given the period of time he has been missing and the challenging weather in the area, there are obvious concerns for Mr Willoughby’s welfare,” Inspector Clark said.
“But we always remain hopeful that we may find him.
“We will continue the search into this evening and again tomorrow, focusing on the vicinity of where he was last seen and some new areas south of the general search area.”
Anyone who has information regarding the incident or who may have seen Mr Willoughby in the area from Sunday is asked to contact police on 131 444.
