Tragic update in search for bushwalker
The body of a bushwalker has been found almost two weeks since he went missing in southwest Sydney.
Darren Banks, 57, was last seen at a home in Macquarie Fields about 4pm on March 15.
NSW Police confirmed about 4.20pm on Thursday the body Mr Banks was found in bushland south of Campbelltown.
Police will prepare a report for the coroner.
“Police thank the community and media for their assistance,” police said in a statement.
Mr Banks was reportedly in good health and well prepared for the hike, and was expected to return home the following day with plans to spend that weekend with family.
He was reported missing the following Tuesday but loved ones and police were unable to contact him for 13 days.
Police confirmed he made it to the hiking trail after finding his car parked near the Starlight Trail in Wattle Ridge, 15km west of Bargo, last Thursday.
It is understood Mr Banks was familiar with the walking trail but it was considered difficult terrain.
“Now it is it is quite remote spot deep in the bush. There’s not a lot of people out there,” Detective Inspector Andrew Mackay said.
However, there is significant access to freshwater and family said he was in “very good health” before leaving home two weeks ago.
SES crews assisted with the land search over the last week.
