Family reports elderly woman missing three months after last sighting
- Replies 19
The trails of the Bibbulmun Track, a scenic route stretching over 1,000 kilometres from Kalamunda to Albany, have become the centre of a perplexing mystery involving the disappearance of Nathalie Casal, a 71-year-old Perth doctor.
Known for her love of nature and her dedication to her medical practice, Dr Casal's absence has left both her family and the community in a state of alarm.
In December, Dr Casal told her family she would embark on a routine walk along the Bibbulmun Track, a popular trail among hikers seeking the tranquillity of Western Australia's bushland.
She informed them that she would be with a large group and might not be reachable for some time.
However, the routine walk turned into an unsettling silence as she never returned.
Her family only reported her missing to the authorities last March 7.
The Western Australia Police Force issued a statement on March 14, saying: ‘Police believe she may have started her walk from Mundaring, however, she hasn't been in contact with family since.’
Dr Casal is not only a respected general practitioner based in Joondalup, 26 km north of Perth's central business district (CBD), but also an advocate for animal welfare.
Her passion for the well-being of animals was evident in her submission to the discussions around the Criminal Code Amendment (Animal Protection) Bill 2015.
The police have expressed grave concerns for Dr Casal's welfare, emphasising that her disappearance is out of character and urged anyone with information to come forward.
‘Anyone who has seen Dr Casal, or has any information in relation to her whereabouts, is urged to contact police immediately on 131 444,’ their post read.
Dr Casal was described as approximately 157cm tall with short grey hair and brown eyes.
The community has been asked to cast their minds back to December to recall any sightings or interactions that could provide a clue to her whereabouts.
The Bibbulmun Track, while beautiful, is also remote and challenging in parts, raising fears for Dr Casal's safety. The track's rugged terrain and the length of time since her disappearance present significant hurdles in the search.
According to Trail Hiking Australia, the track is classified as Grade 4 under the Australian Walking Track Grading System, ‘a nationally consistent system to grade the level of difficulty of the track walking experience’.
‘Suitable for experienced hikers as navigation and technical skills will be required,’ the group said of Grade 4 trails.
‘Trails will be long, rough and very steep with limited signage or navigation aids. Rock scrambling and river crossings may be required. Hikes generally less than 25km.’
For our members, particularly those who enjoy the great outdoors and the freedom of a solitary walk, this story serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safety and communication.
Always let someone know your plans, stick to them, and check in regularly. If you're planning an extended trip, consider carrying a personal locator beacon or a satellite phone, especially in areas with poor mobile reception.
As the search continues, we extend our thoughts to Dr Casal's family and friends during this difficult time. The SDC hopes for her safe return.
Known for her love of nature and her dedication to her medical practice, Dr Casal's absence has left both her family and the community in a state of alarm.
In December, Dr Casal told her family she would embark on a routine walk along the Bibbulmun Track, a popular trail among hikers seeking the tranquillity of Western Australia's bushland.
She informed them that she would be with a large group and might not be reachable for some time.
Dr Casal went on a walk on the Bibbulmun Track last December. Image source: Western Australia Police Force/Facebook
However, the routine walk turned into an unsettling silence as she never returned.
Her family only reported her missing to the authorities last March 7.
The Western Australia Police Force issued a statement on March 14, saying: ‘Police believe she may have started her walk from Mundaring, however, she hasn't been in contact with family since.’
Dr Casal is not only a respected general practitioner based in Joondalup, 26 km north of Perth's central business district (CBD), but also an advocate for animal welfare.
Her passion for the well-being of animals was evident in her submission to the discussions around the Criminal Code Amendment (Animal Protection) Bill 2015.
The police have expressed grave concerns for Dr Casal's welfare, emphasising that her disappearance is out of character and urged anyone with information to come forward.
‘Anyone who has seen Dr Casal, or has any information in relation to her whereabouts, is urged to contact police immediately on 131 444,’ their post read.
Dr Casal was described as approximately 157cm tall with short grey hair and brown eyes.
The community has been asked to cast their minds back to December to recall any sightings or interactions that could provide a clue to her whereabouts.
The Bibbulmun Track, while beautiful, is also remote and challenging in parts, raising fears for Dr Casal's safety. The track's rugged terrain and the length of time since her disappearance present significant hurdles in the search.
According to Trail Hiking Australia, the track is classified as Grade 4 under the Australian Walking Track Grading System, ‘a nationally consistent system to grade the level of difficulty of the track walking experience’.
The Bibbulmun Track stretches from Perth to Albany in southwestern WA. Image Credit: Trail Hiking Australia / OpenStreet Map & Mapbox
‘Suitable for experienced hikers as navigation and technical skills will be required,’ the group said of Grade 4 trails.
‘Trails will be long, rough and very steep with limited signage or navigation aids. Rock scrambling and river crossings may be required. Hikes generally less than 25km.’
For our members, particularly those who enjoy the great outdoors and the freedom of a solitary walk, this story serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safety and communication.
Always let someone know your plans, stick to them, and check in regularly. If you're planning an extended trip, consider carrying a personal locator beacon or a satellite phone, especially in areas with poor mobile reception.
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