Search for Missing Boy August 'Gus' Lamont in South Australia Shifts to Recovery Phase
The search for four-year-old August "Gus" Lamont, who went missing near Yunta in the South Australian outback on Saturday, September 27th, has entered a recovery phase. Despite extensive search efforts involving police, volunteers, and the Australian Defence Force (ADF), hopes are fading for the safe return of the young boy.
Details of the Disappearance
Gus was last seen at his family’s remote homestead, approximately 40 kilometers south of Yunta, around 5pm on Saturday. He is described as Caucasian, with long blond curly hair. He was last seen wearing a grey sun hat, a cobalt blue t-shirt featuring a yellow ‘Minion’ character, light grey long pants, and boots. The family property is a sheep station outside Yunta.
Extensive Search Efforts
The search effort has been comprehensive, involving Yorke Mid North police, specialist resources including STAR Group, Water and Mounted Operations Units, PolAir, and Dog Operations. Police cadets, SES volunteers, trailbike and ATV teams, drones, a traditional Aboriginal tracker, and a large number of dedicated community and family members have also assisted. A contingent of 48 personnel from the Australian Defence Force joined the search efforts.
Shift to Recovery Phase
After nearly a week of searching, police have stated they are shifting their focus to a "recovery phase" following discussions with Gus’s parents. Assistant Commissioner Ian Parrott stated that, given the length of time Gus has been missing and the environmental conditions, it is unlikely he has survived. Police and volunteers walked 30 to 40 thousand steps per day trying to locate Gus. Yorke Mid North Superintendent Mark Syrusa expressed concern after a week in the bush without food or water.
Evidence and Investigation
Investigators have been working to cover all lines of inquiry. A sole footprint was identified as a possible clue, but police have cast doubt on it. Despite the lack of concrete evidence, police are treating the case as one where Gus wandered off from the property on his own. Detectives are assisting local investigators to ensure every possibility is explored.
Family's Plea
Gus' family released a statement via police, expressing their devastation and gratitude for the support received. They asked for privacy as they focus on supporting the search and working with the police. Their statement read:
We are devastated by the disappearance of our beloved Gus on Saturday afternoon. This has come as a shock to our family and friends, and we are struggling to comprehend what has happened. Gus ‘s absence is felt in all of us, and we miss him more than words can express. Our hearts are aching, and we are holding onto hope that he will be found and returned to us safely. We are incredibly grateful to the South Australia Police, emergency services and the many organisations and community members, neighbours and friends who have come together to help find Gus. At this time, we kindly ask for privacy as we focus all our energy on supporting the search and working closely with the police.
Community Support and Expert Opinions
Despite the shift to a recovery phase, some remain hopeful. Local goat herder Royce Player expressed his belief that Gus is still in the area. Survivalist Michael Atkinson suggested that Gus's upbringing on the property might give him a better chance of survival. Others voiced concerns about unmarked mines and wells in the area.
How to Help
Police continue to urge anyone who may have information that could assist the search to contact Crime Stoppers at www.crimestopperssa.com.au or call 1800 333 000, quoting reference #250513.
