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For those who knew and loved him, Zedric Basil Woolley is remembered not by the circumstances of his disappearance, but by the life he lived.A devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, Zedric was happiest when surrounded by family. He enjoyed sharing stories, lending a helping hand, spending time in the garden and painting just about anything he could. He could often be found at the Huon cattle sales or watching football at Huonville, and his family still hear his familiar sayings in everyday moments that bring a smile to their faces.Although Zedric has been missing since 2012, he remains a much-loved member of his family whose absence is felt every day.This Father's Day, as part of the National Missing Persons Coordination Centre's Dear Dad campaign, Zedric's family have kindly shared a personal message to the dad and pop they continue to love, miss and search for, alongside some photographs of Zedric:“Dear Dad and Pop,Happy Father's Day. We miss you.Dad and Pop, you were happiest when surrounded by the people you loved. Whether it was spending time with family, sharing stories, lending a helping hand, working in the garden, or painting just about anything you could, you always found joy in the simple things. You also loved attending the Huon cattle sales and watching football at Huonville.These are the memories we hold close every day. We still smile when we remember your favourite sayings: "See you in the soup, you bring the peas!" and "Got to get home before the possums come out." And whenever someone says, "Here they are," we still find ourselves looking around, just as we always did when you said it.Today, as we reflect on Father's Day, we want people to know that you are more than a photograph or a missing person's case. You are a much-loved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather whose absence is felt every single day. We continue to hold onto hope, cherish your memory, and search for answers.Dad/Pop, we love you. We miss you. We think about you every day, and we will never stop searching for answers.”   The Woolley family's message highlights the lasting impact that a missing person's absence has on those left behind. While years may pass, the love and memories remain, and families continue to hope for answers.This Father's Day, we encourage the community to take a moment to reflect on Zedric's disappearance. Information that may seem insignificant could be the key to helping investigators understand what happened and provide answers to his family.Anyone with information relating to the disappearance of Zedric Basil Woolley is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestoppers.com.au.Every piece of information matters.You can find out more about Zedric here. 

As part of our 2026 National Missing Persons Week campaign “Answers still matter”, age-progressed images played a central role in helping Australians imagine what long-term missing people may look like today. These images are often among the most recognisable and widely shared tools used in missing persons investigations, attracting public attention and prompting renewed conversations about cases that may have been unsolved for years or even decades.But what many people don't see is the extensive process required to carefully craft each image.Creating an age progression is far more than adding wrinkles or greying hair to an old photograph. It is a specialised process that combines forensic art, anatomy, ageing science, investigative information and, most importantly, collaboration with families who know their missing loved one best.From studying facial structure and familial traits to understanding the effects of age, lifestyle and environment, AFP Forensic Artists carefully develop each image using a combination of scientific knowledge, technical skill and family input. Every age progression is unique, reflecting both the individual being depicted and the circumstances of their disappearance.As interest in age-progressed images continues to grow, so too do questions about how they are created, what information is used, the role families play in the process and why a forensic artist-led approach remains so important in an era of increasingly accessible artificial intelligence tools.To provide a behind-the-scenes insight into this work, we spoke with AFP Forensic Artists about the process of creating age-progressed images, the challenges involved and the impact these images can have on families and investigations.You can read the full interview below: 1. Can you walk us through the process of creating an age-progressed image from start to finish?We begin by collecting images of the missing person (reference images), then conduct a Morphological analysis of the imagery to describe individual features, identify asymmetries, scars, marks and any other information that will allow us to become familiar with them. This means analysing each facial feature carefully, including their eyes, mouth, nose, face shape, face lines and marks to determine what makes this person unique. We then use components from a facial feature dataset along with manual digital painting techniques to create a likeness of the individual around the time that they went missing, before age progressing them to the age that they would be today. Each digital painting process is unique to the image and the artist creating it. Once an image is completed, it is technically reviewed by another Forensic Artist to ensure that everything has been considered and the likeness remains. The image is then shared with the next of kin or family members to obtain feedback. This is an important step as the family are the ones that knew the person best and can provide valuable information to secure the best possible age progression of their loved one. 2. What material and resources do you rely on when creating an age-progressed image?Imagery of the missing person is required so that we can accurately create a likeness. In addition, where available, we ask for Images of close relatives and siblings at or around the age that the missing person would today be. This helps us to identify familial traits to increase the accuracy of the final age progression. We also ask the family to complete a description form, which includes general features (eye colour, hair colour, etc) as well as personal style (hairstyle, jewellery etc.) and any lifestyle habits that may impact ageing (smoking, outdoor lifestyles etc.).In creating the age progressed images, we rely on knowledge relating to human anatomy, stability of facial features and the environmental effects on ageing.3. What physical characteristics are most important when projecting how someone may look years later?We maintain the shape, proportions and spacing of facial features, any asymmetries as well as scars and marks (e.g. freckles) and then add the characteristics which we can predict as they age such as deeper facial lines or wrinkles, hair thinning, greying or receding and changes to cartilage in the ears and nose. The deterioration of skin elasticity around eyes, mouth and neck are also important characteristics when depicting ageing.  It may not sound like nice to add to a person's face, but it is done respectfully with dignity, care and the advice and feedback from family members to ensure the best representation is created.   4. What are some of the factors that are impossible to predict in an age-progressed image?We must make an educated guess in terms of things like hairstyles, weight and the presence of absence of facial hair in men based on their history and the information we get from the family members.  Weight gain will add some fat to the face, giving it a younger appearance whereas weight loss will add some age to the face as the fat pads decrease. We will estimate weight based on the reference images, known lifestyle habits and if available, how other close relatives look at the target age.Persons dying their hair, using hair-loss treatments, wearing a wig or toupee, or headwear to hide ageing affects are things that we can’t be certain of. Many people change their hairstyles over their lifetime and are still recognisable to those that know them well. We hope that creating an accurate facial likeness will help to mitigate the uncertainty around hairstyles.Plastic surgery and procedures such and face lifts and fillers will affect the face. Injuries such as head trauma which changes bone, skin or muscle structure cannot be predicted. Diseases such as cancer, stroke, heart, liver or kidney disease can be unpredictable factors affecting the persons appearance.Lifestyle factors such as working outdoors, indoors, making healthy or unhealthy choices with food, alcohol use and smoking will also affect the appearance of the ageing face. We rely heavily on information from the family to know how much this may affect ageing process, specific to their missing loved one. 5. How closely do you work with the families of missing persons during this process, and what value does their input provide?Helping the families and honouring their missing loved one is our goal. Their input and satisfaction is of high importance as they knew the family member best and are able to provide us guidance.We make contact with the family at the beginning of the process and throughout depending on their specific needs. The families hold valuable information, references and a unique knowledge and perspective of the missing person that helps us to create an accurate image of their loved one.  Each family is different and we adapt to the level of contact that they find comfortable.  Once we have completed an age progression, we will send it to the family for feedback. This is a crucial part of the process where they can contribute and provide further insight so that we can best capture the personality and likeness of their loved one. 6. With AI image-generation tools becoming more accessible, why is a forensic artist-led approach so important for age progression?AI may increasingly become more valuable but is currently in its infancy. With privacy laws such as they are, the AFP cannot engage with AI in this area until there is clear understanding in where and if data is stored and where the data from AI generation is being sourced.  Forensic artists are trained in all facets of face portraiture, anatomy, ageing, interpersonal skills and relationship building. An age progression is a collaboration between AFP forensic artists and family members of the missing person. It provides protection of privacy, ensures an individualised age progressed image and includes a review by two expert artists and the family. AI is currently unable to understand the nuances of what makes a person unique as it applies the same adjustments to every image without considerations of specific anatomy or familial traits. The partnership between the artist and family is so important for accuracy and this human element can’t be replaced. 7. Why are age-progressed images such an important tool in long-term missing persons investigations?Age progressions ensure the missing person’s story is still being told and has helped to solve previous long-term missing persons cases.They attract media attention because of the mystery, storytelling and thought-provoking content.  When we look at the statistics of missing persons social media websites in USA, Canada and Australia it shows that Age progressions were the most shared posts.   8. What should families do if they believe an age-progressed image may help in their loved one's case?Contact the NMPCC who will collaborate with the AFP Facial Identification Team to assess the case. Based on the assessment, we will do what we can to create an age progression. 9. What is the biggest misconception people have about age-progressed images?We worry that the public may think we use AI to create our age progressions in this modern age. As we’re creating a representation from the information we have, the age progression may not be an exact representation of the missing person now, as humans all age differently based on their environment and genetics. The aim is to work with the families to produce a likeness that will elicit recognition regardless of weight variation or other superficial or cosmetic factors. 10. What is the most challenging part of creating an age-progressed image?The most challenging part is creating a likeness of a person from limited reference imagery. Sometimes there are few images of the missing person, or because of when they were taken (e.g. film and early digital cameras) they may not be high quality. This is why working with the family is so important, to try and capture the true likeness. 11. What do you hope families feel when they see the final image?We hope it brings them some peace as well as answers. To complete an age progression for a family is one of the most rewarding aspects of our job. It is a very emotional experience for the family to request and to assist in the completion of an age progression, but the gratitude for our work from the families upon completion can be overwhelming.  We appreciate that when a loved person goes missing it is a very difficult situation filled with grief and loss. Our intention is to shine a light on a missing person and their story.  You can find out more about age progression here.

More than two decades after Susan Goodwin vanished from Port Lincoln without a trace, a new interview, Searching for Susan, provides insight into one of South Australia's most enduring long-term missing person investigations and the painstaking work that ultimately led police to her remains.In the interview, Detective Senior Seargent Justin Thompson touches on the life of Susan Goodwin, the circumstances surrounding her disappearance in July 2002, and the determination that drove investigators through years of unanswered questions, public appeals and extensive reviews.Born and raised in country Victoria, Susan Goodwin was one of five children. Her life changed dramatically in 1984 when a serious car crash claimed the lives of three of her siblings and left her with significant injuries that would affect her for the rest of her life. Despite ongoing physical and mental health challenges, Susan Goodwin built a life with her partner Michelle and eventually settled in Port Lincoln, a community that would become central to the investigation following her disappearance.The interview carefully retraces Susan’s final known movements on 19 July 2002. After dropping Michelle at work as part of her normal daily routine, Susan Goodwin spent the morning running errands around town before visiting a property at 5 Pamir Street, one of the last locations where she was known to have been seen.Investigators say the last confirmed communication from Susan occurred at 2.38pm that afternoon. Later that day, when she failed to collect Michelle from work as planned, alarm bells began to ring. Their shared vehicle was later found at home, unlocked and without its keys, but there was no sign of Susan.Justin explains that, in the early stages, detectives were faced with a range of possibilities."Many people get reported missing each day. The great majority of them are found very early on. People go missing for a number of reasons, so we had to explore all those options and not discount anything."Among the theories investigated were whether Susan Goodwin had voluntarily left Port Lincoln, suffered a mental health crisis, experienced a fatal overdose, or become the victim of foul play.As the investigation progressed and evidence was assessed, police became increasingly convinced that Susan Goodwin had not simply disappeared of her own accord. In 2013, a reward of up to $200,000 was offered for information relating to her suspected murder or the location of her remains.In addition to the reward offered for information relating to Susan an extensive case review was launched in 2017, which investigators describe as a turning point in the long-running investigation.Police undertook an intensive community engagement campaign, distributing posters throughout Port Lincoln, placing Susan Goodwin's image on thousands of beer coasters, displaying her photograph on police vehicles and sending letters to prisoners with knowledge of the local area in the hope of uncovering new information.According to Justin, much of the progress came from old-fashioned detective work."It was really just feet on ground, out speaking to people."Years of interviews, tip-offs and community information allowed investigators to work through rumours and eliminate alternative lines of inquiry, gradually narrowing their focus.The interview also explores the significance of 5 Pamir Street, Port Lincoln, a property that remained firmly on investigators' radar for many years. While the location had long been considered important, practical challenges, including structures built over the site and significant amounts of debris in the yard, made a comprehensive search difficult.Justin reveals that the property remained a key focus throughout the review process."I was never happy in finalising our review until that property at 5 Pamir Street had been searched."The breakthrough finally came when the property became vacant and was cleared, giving investigators what Justin described as the ideal opportunity to conduct a thorough examination of the site.Working alongside the Australian Federal Police, South Australian Police (SAPOL) utilised ground-penetrating radar technology to identify potential areas of interest beneath the surface. During excavation works, investigators discovered what appeared to be a human femur protruding through the soil."It was sort of a surreal moment."The discovery led to the careful recovery and identification of Susan Goodwin's remains, marking a significant development in a case that had remained unresolved for more than 22 years.Throughout Searching for Susan, Justin repeatedly highlights the importance of community support and collaboration between agencies in achieving that outcome."Every bit of information is important."He credits the local community, Crime Stoppers reports, specialist support from the Australian Federal Police and Forensics Specialists, alongside years of persistent investigative work as critical elements in the search for answers.While Susan’s case currently remains before the courts and investigators are limited in what they can publicly disclose, the interview offers a powerful reflection on the persistence required in long-term investigations and the profound impact unresolved cases have on loved ones.One of the most moving moments comes as Justin recalls informing Michelle that Susan had finally been found."The day when we found her and had to go over and actually tell Michelle would be something that will never leave me."Ultimately, Searching for Susan is not only a story about a police investigation. It is a story about perseverance, community involvement and the enduring hope of finding answers, no matter how much time has passed.As Justin concludes:"No matter how old the case is, if you have information, speak to police. These inquiries are always open. We're always seeking new information." You can listen to the full interview and read the complete transcript below. Interview Transcript: InterviewerBehind every missing person case are loved ones waiting for answers.When Susan Goodwin disappeared from Port Lincoln in July 2002, her loved ones were left with a question that would remain unanswered for more than two decades: What happened to Susan?Today, we're speaking with Detective Senior Sergeant Justin Thompson from South Australia Police, who worked closely on the case for many years. Together, we'll explore Susan's life, the investigation into her disappearance, the role of the local community, and the discovery that finally brought some measure of closure.This is Searching for Susan. InterviewerSo, Justin, for listeners unfamiliar with this case, can you give us a brief overview of who Susan Goodwin was and why this investigation has remained so significant over more than two decades? IntervieweeSusan, she was born and raised in country Victoria. She was one of five children to her parents, Margaret and Don Goodwin. Her childhood and early adult years were, you know, largely unremarkable. However, it's in 1984, when she was 24 years old, she was involved in a serious car accident, which claimed the lives of three of her siblings.And as a result of that car accident, she suffered some fairly significant ongoing neck and back injuries. And really was from that time on was sort of unable to work, and was placed on a support pension, which basically remained her primary source of income throughout her years. In 1989, she developed a relationship with a, a resident in another resident in country Victoria, a lady by the name of Michelle. They were both from a little town called Wonthaggi in Victoria. And in the early years through the early 90s, Susan and Michelle, travelled around Australia and had a holiday, and they, at the time, they visited a town in South Australia called Port Lincoln, which is another country town on the Eyre Peninsula.And, they, sort of fell in love with the town. They both returned to sort of Wonthaggi, but then, around 1991 they separated for a short time, and, Michelle left Wonthaggi and she moved and started living in Port Lincoln. About three years later, Susan and Michelle sort of rekindled their relationship. And Susan moved over to Port Lincoln, where they were, both living together.Susan was a sociable person. She mixed well with others, but she had a fairly small, close circle of friends. And she did suffer from some, mental health problems, some anxiety and, you know, she was very reliant on her partner, Michelle. And they had a good relationship together.And got on well together and as I said, just continued to live in the town of Port Lincoln. Investigations remain so, so significant. I guess it's like any investigation none is any more significant than the other. The fact of, she'd been missing for so long in itself, is significant not only to the police, but obviously even more significant as well to the family members and the people that are left behind.Port Lincoln's very small, again, small country town in South Australia and incidents like these don't occur very often. So, for a town like Port Lincoln and the community there, it, has remained a significant matter over a long time. InterviewerWhat do we know about the circumstances of Susan's disappearance, and how did police initially respond at the time? IntervieweeThe day that Susan disappeared on the 19th of July 2002. It was a Friday, around 6:40 a.m. in the morning Susan did her usual thing, and that was to drive her partner Michelle to, work in Port Lincoln and dropped her off. Again, this is part of her daily routine.We know Susan then returned back to her home address in Port Lincoln. We know, at about 10:13 a.m. that morning, she, telephoned a local service station and discussed, having a gas delivery to her residence. And then there was a number of people after that that also sighted Susan, throughout the town, driving around, she was running a few errands, doing some grocery shopping.And we also, recovered some supermarket dockets from her home address that showed that she would have been shopping the local supermarket during the morning and, in towards midday that day. Michelle's brother also lived in Port Lincoln, and he lived in a, address in, Pamir Street in Port Lincoln.And we know Susan went to visit, Michelle's brother at that location. And that was at about, round about 12:45. We've got confirmation of her going there. Whilst still parked at Michelle's brother's house at 6 Pamir Street. She went across the road to another residence at 5 Pamir Street, in Port Lincoln to speak to the occupant there.Now due to the ongoing investigation, I can't make too much more comment about her reason for attending there. But we know that she spent a short time there at the address at 5 Pamir Street, and we know that she did leave that house, got back in her car and drove and returned to her home address.We know then at 2:38 p.m. on the 19th of July, we know that Susan made a phone call from her home phone to a person that's known to us. But again, I can't really go into the circumstances about, that phone call. But what I can say that was the last known, communication that anyone had had with Susan after that time, and there have been no further sightings of her.And so around 4:15 in the afternoon, again, the daily routine would be that Susan would go and pick up her partner Michelle from work when she’d finished, on this occasion, at around 4:15, she's meant to be picked up, she didn't arrive and Michelle had to find her own way home. When she got home, the car that they jointly owned, their only car, was parked in the drive.Had no keys with the car, it was unlocked, had no keys, and, Susan's wallet was also not located at home. But there was no sign of Susan. And from that point, she had never been seen. And Michelle obviously started making inquiries to try and find her. And, subsequently ended up contacting police. InterviewerWhat theories or possibilities were being considered early on, and what made it so difficult to determine what had happened to Susan? IntervieweeYeah. Look with these cases, they are difficult because, initially there is a number of theories that are thrown up, for various reasons. We had the theories that maybe the relationship between, Susan and Michelle wasn't that good and, that, Susan simply just has left and taken off, and just hasn't told anyone about it but she wanted to escape Port Lincoln for some reason. That was certainly, one of the theories that crossed the mind of police. There was there were some early on rumours floating around like, Susan was a, did use illicit drugs. I wouldn't say a heavy user or anything like that, by no means, but she was a, casual user of illicit drugs.So there was theories floating around that maybe that she had visited a friend and had a drug overdose. And, that reason that was trying to be hidden and, they’ve disposed of her or something like that. That was a possibility that was thrown out. As I mentioned before, she did have some, some ongoing mental health issues so that was thrown up that maybe they got too much for her and she again similarly wandered off to go and get some, find some time and get some space. And also obviously looking at the possibility of was foul play involved. So, you know, a number of possibilities get, explored early on and it is a difficult situation, as we know. Many people get reported missing each day. Great majority of them are found very early on. And people go missing for a number of reasons. So we had to explore all those options and not discount anything but early on obviously we just had no real idea that she just vanished with no trace. InterviewerOver the 22 years, what were some of the key investigative efforts, such as public appeals, the reward and the 2017 task force review, and how did they contribute to progressing the case? IntervieweeEarly on, there was a number of public appeals through the media. In 2013, so it was sometime after, Susan had gone missing, a reward was applied for and granted that was up, reward for up to $200,000 for information on Susan's murder, and or the location of her remains.By the time we got to that far down the track, we were much more confident that we were investigating foul play and that, she, in fact, hadn't just wandered off. So therefore, a reward was granted. In 2017, I managed a review into her case. When we re-looked into it again and then we did a lot of unprecedented sort of strategies, appealing for public information. So we printed a number of posters, which we placed across all sort of local businesses throughout Port Lincoln, and we printed off thousands of, beer coasters, which we rolled off into licensed premises in Port Lincoln. It was just basically with her photograph on it and basically any information that anyone would have, in regards to her disappearance, to contact police. We placed, like, wraps around the rear of police vehicles the rear windscreen of police vehicles with big pictures of, Susan on it.So they were visibly getting seen throughout the community, again conducted a number of media appeals, and we also sent letters to all prisoners that were within the Port Lincoln prison, to see if they had, if anyone within the prison in the criminal society had any, information in regards to that, to contact police. With the small town, small town like Port Lincoln made it more of a concentrated area where, made it, I guess, easier for us to have this sort of campaign and, run it through local businesses and the prison and things like that.So we did receive a lot of positive response and a number of phone calls to Crime Stoppers, which did result in some fresh information, that we continued to investigate. InterviewerHow did investigators ultimately eliminate other leads and narrow the case down to a single suspect? IntervieweeBasically a lot of hard work and just old-fashioned sort of detective work. And it was really just feet on ground out speaking to people. Back in 2002 and especially in, again, a town like Port Lincoln, things like CCTV, was limited, mobile phone use was limited so it was really just speaking to people and, especially in 2017 when we reviewed the case, we spent many weeks over in Port Lincoln, speaking with locals, again, a country town. Throughout the years, a lot of rumours had circulated throughout the town, and a lot of people, other people had been nominated as possibly being involved or having information.So we spent a big chunk of time speaking to people and sort of negating any rumour, to try and work out exactly what sort of evidence and information we had. Took a long time to eliminate, those rumours and get to the bottom of them, which we continued on for several or many years, until we ultimately come up with, where we found her. InterviewerWhat changed that allowed investigators to search 5 Pamir street in Port Lincoln? And why was that moment so critical? IntervieweeYeah. Look, there was no real moment as such. There was a change. And again, I need to be a bit careful on what I say, but there was a number of people we were investigating as part of the review, and a number of, locations we were looking at, and during the investigation, as I said before, a number of people were spoken to, and there was a number of searches conducted for Susan.I guess I personally was, was never happy in finalising sort of our review that had commenced in 2017. Until that property at 5 Pamir Street had been, searched. It was one of the, last, places that she was seen to attend at. And for me, I just, you know, there was evidence that led us to that location, obviously, but also it was a it was a gut feeling that just something wasn't right about that location, and look there was a number of reasons that, that house had remained, significant. But also there was a number of reasons why it couldn't have been searched earlier. The rear yard in particular had a number of structures over the years that had been built. And there was also the whole property, rear yard was totally full of rubbish and items and cars and things like that.And sort of logistics of doing the search that property as thoroughly as I wanted to was very difficult with all this building that had gone on afterwards and structures. And like I said there's a lot of other factors that I can't go into that at this time on why we didn't, but that was sort of it was always had been on our mind there for some time that we wanted to search that property. We just had to wait for the right time. InterviewerCan you walk us through how Susan was located and what role technology like ground penetrating radar played in that process? IntervieweeBy September 2025, things had changed at 5 Pamir Street. It was now vacant, structures that had been erected in the rear yard, previously had all been, taken down by the, Housing SA. And all the rubbish had been removed from the yard and basically been, the property had been returned to its original bare state. So presented us with the perfect opportunity that we had sort of a blank canvas of the rear yard that we could conduct a thorough search of.  So we liaised with the AFP, and their assistance in regards to the ground penetrating radar, which they have, the equipment and the expertise to use, to survey the rear yard of that property. That was conducted over a two day period and, a number of areas of interest were located, which we then sought to excavate. An excavator was brought in and it was only on our second, second area that we'd identified that we were digging whilst the excavator was carefully, pulling back the soil it sort of hit a sort of a bit of a rocky patch.We had consideration on if we would think. Okay, well, we would stop there or we'd go again and we as a team, decided, we'll just go one more, one more, scrape with it over just to remove some of the rocks. Which they did. And then a, a bone protruded through the soil.We had a look at the bone was sort of a surreal moment, I guess. But, we looked at the bone and it looked, to us as a human femur bone. So we immediately stopped excavation. I sought some advice from the, forensic anthropologist back in Adelaide over the phone, exchanged some photographs of what we'd found, they, agreed that it appeared human remains. And then we shut down the scene and waited for arrival from forensic specialists from Adelaide to come back. And then we, commenced the very careful, exhumation of the remains of Susan. InterviewerHow important was collaboration between SAPOL, the Australian Federal Police, and information from the public in reaching this outcome? IntervieweeOh, look, it's highly important. And look it might be a bit cliche, but every bit of information is important. Even if the information is in the end is proven to be incorrect. But we had massive input from the local community. As I said again, a lot of the information we had from the community ended up being rumours and did end up being incorrect, but it still, as a whole helped us paint a picture of what was going on.It would be encouraged that people would call us regardless and let us I guess, decide on, the validity of the information because I guess we as investigating would know a lot more behind the scenes of what's going on than, say, a member of the public would. But the collaboration with the AFP proved pivotal as well.They had the expertise and the equipment that we needed. And at the end of the day, we will liaise with whoever we need to, through law enforcement or through the private sector or whatever equipment we may need or expertise we may need when it comes to, finding people like this. InterviewerWhere does the case currently stand in the legal process, and are there any further developments at this point in time? IntervieweeYeah, again, I cannot I cannot say too much, other than it's before the courts. And could be a lengthy, lengthy process before we finalise the matter, it's only in its early stages in the court system. InterviewerLooking back, what does this case say about persistence in long term investigations? And what message would you like to share with the community? IntervieweeYeah, I think it shows as investigators, that we will never give up. For various reasons, investigation can slow and all avenues of investigations might be explored, but then, all of a sudden, new information comes in or reviews are conducted with a fresh set of eyes, and then we're off again exploring new avenues and new lines of inquiry start to open up.I guess the message is that, no matter how old the case is or if you think a case is done and dusted but regardless if you have the information, then speak to the police no matter what you think may have happened with this case. Because I can say these inquiries and these cases are always open. We're always seeking new information. Where you know, that little bit of information could be what we need to spark off into a new entire investigation and, you know, hopefully we can bring in some sort of conclusion.I’m sort of well aware now, you know, I had this case for 12 or 13 years, and worked very closely with the family, worked very closely with Suzanne's partner, Michelle.And I saw firsthand over many years, what this means to the family and what it means to them. And, you know, the day when we found her and had to go over and actually tell Michelle, will be something that sort of will never leave me, just to see her face after all this time, you know, it stays with them forever.And she's lived her whole life with this in mind every day. So, it just says how much it means to families to get some sort of conclusion. Interviewer:The story of Susan Goodwin is a reminder that missing persons investigations aren't measured in days or months, but in the lasting impact they have on families, friends and communities.As we've heard today, investigative persistence, community support and a commitment to following every lead helped bring answers after more than 22 years.Our thanks to Justin and South Australia Police for sharing insights, and to everyone who contributed information throughout the course of the investigation.If you have information about a missing person, please contact Crime Stoppers online, or call 1800 333 000.This has been Searching for Susan. Thank you for listening. 

This year's National Missing Persons Week (NMPW) campaign runs from 2-8 August 2026.The 'Answers still matter' campaign focuses on eight long-term missing Australians and highlights the enduring importance of finding answers, no matter how much time has passed since a person disappeared.Through the use of age-progressed imagery, the campaign presents an updated depiction of what each missing person may look like today. Developed in collaboration with families and AFP forensic artists, these images help bring long-term missing persons cases back into public focus and create new opportunities for recognition and information.While time may change appearances, it does not lessen the impact of a person's absence on their loved ones or the importance of finding answers.This National Missing Persons Week, we encourage you to take the time to view the profiles featured in our campaign below. Further missing persons profiles can be viewed via the National Missing Persons Coordination Centre's Public Register.ACT: Amelia Toa HausiaNSW: Elaine JohnsonNT: Ronya LivoniQLD: Tanya BucklandTAS: Gilbert Arthur MidsonSA: Mark Anthony BarnesVIC: Gregory Joseph DelaneyWA: Sophie Helen WoodmanYou can find out more about NMPW 2026 here.If you have any information about a missing person, we encourage you to contact Crime Stoppers via https://crimestoppers.com.au/ or 1800 333 000For further information and campaign updates, follow the National Missing Persons Coordination Centre on Facebook, Instagram and X.

In 2026, we mark 20 years since the establishment of the National Missing Persons Coordination Centre (NMPCC). Over the past two decades, the NMPCC has worked to raise awareness of missing persons, support investigations, and keep the stories of long-term missing Australians in the public eye. This anniversary edition reflects that ongoing commitment and recognises the enduring impact these cases have on families and communities across Australia.This special edition poster highlights missing persons featured on posters in 2006, who are yet to be located. By revisiting and highlighting these unresolved cases 20 years later, we aim to keep them visible and honour the families and communities who continue to remember, miss and love them. The July 2026 20th anniversary edition poster is now available!Have you seen any of these people? Brett McGillivrayCengiz SaracChristine SomogyiChristen FogartyDavid KeighranDavid SushamesElizabeth HerfortGregory Christiansen (Papps)Jason LawsonKathleen O'SheaLester LeeLisa MoyMahalingam SinnathambyMartin CowenRobert WilsonSimon KnightSteven WilliamsAccess all missing persons posters.

New national missing persons statistics for Australia have now been released on the National Missing Persons Coordination Centre website, providing a current snapshot of missing persons activity across the country. All data has been collated in collaboration with state and territory police to form a national picture. The statistics reflect missing persons information as of 31 December 2025 and include both people reported missing during the year and those classified as long-term missing; those who have been missing for longer than 3 months. Data has been provided where possible by each jurisdiction; however, reporting processes may vary across states and territories. The National Missing Persons Coordination Centre collects this data annually to better understand the trends and demographics of missing persons in Australia. It highlights who is most affected, how frequently reports occur, and the ongoing presence and gravity of long-term missing persons cases.  In 2025, the number of missing persons reports decreased; however, remain a prominent function of policing activity, and a continued concentration of risk amongst younger age groups was observed.New national missing persons statistics for Australia have now been released on the National Missing Persons Coordination Centre website, providing a current snapshot of missing persons activity across the country. All data has been collated in collaboration with state and territory police to form a national picture. The statistics reflect missing persons information as of 31 December 2025 and include both people reported missing during the year and those classified as long-term missing; those who have been missing for longer than 3 months. Data has been provided where possible by each jurisdiction; however, reporting processes may vary across states and territories. The National Missing Persons Coordination Centre collects this data annually to better understand the trends and demographics of missing persons in Australia. It highlights who is most affected, how frequently reports occur, and the ongoing presence and gravity of long-term missing persons cases. In 2025, the number of missing persons reports decreased; however, remain a prominent function of policing activity, and a continued concentration of risk amongst younger age groups was observed.

International Missing Children’s Day (IMCD), observed globally on 25 May each year, is dedicated to celebrating children who have been safely reunited with their families, remembering those who have fallen victim to crime, and reinforcing ongoing global efforts to locate missing children.   Please visit our IMCD page for more information. 

Mother’s Day doesn't always look like the same experience for everyone.While many will spend the day celebrating with their children, for families with a missing loved one, it can be a painful reminder of absence, of an empty seat at the table, a call that hasn’t come, and a love that continues without answers.As part of our “Always Your Mum” campaign, we reached out to Liza, the mum of Jacob Partridge, and asked her a few questions about who her son is, beyond a photo, beyond a headline, and beyond the word “missing.”This is Jacob, in his mum’s words:“Who is Jacob, what does he love, and what are some of the things that make him uniquely him?Independent, resourceful, and full of heart, Jacob is known for a kind and caring nature with a thoughtful, level headed approach to life. With a cheeky grin and an easy-going vibe, he's super friendly, loves a good chat with anyone, and has a soft spot for animals. Always approachable and positive, Jacob brings warmth, curiosity, and good energy wherever he goes.Jacob is all about the outdoors and a life well lived. He loves music festivals, camping under the stars, and spending as much time outside as possible. From motorbike rides through the bush to exploring new places, he’s always chasing the next adventure. Jacob is focussed and determined with his fitness and personal health, an interest he shares with his younger brother. Jacob also loves his car and takes real pride in it, looking after his things meticulously and treating what he owns with care and respect.Do you have any favourite memories of being Jacob’s mum, or stories you would like to share?Jacob found independence so early in life — around 19 months old — when his brother and best friend, Ben, was born. From that moment on, Jacob never wanted attention or fuss, never wanted to be a burden or cause a moment of trouble. Even as a toddler, Jacob amazed me every single day. Milestones were met almost before I had time to catch my breath, as if Jacob was quietly saying, “I’ve got this.” Everything felt easy, natural, and calm.Watching that quiet strength and self confidence grow, I kept waiting for the hard stages — the tantrums, the testing years — but they never came. No terrible twos or threes, no difficult phases. Just a small person with a strong sense of self, determined to do everything independently.Bedtime stories were a favourite. When he began to learn to read, Jacob reached for Dr Seuss — even though it was tricky for a kindergarten child, he would sit down and give it a go anyway. He would sound out the first page or so before I would take over. One of our favourites and one that summed up Jacob's easy independent attitude was Oh! The places you'll go!: "Today is your dayYou're off to Great Places!You're off and away!You have brains in your head.You have feet in your shoes.You can steer yourselfany direction you choose.You're on your own. And you know what you know.And YOU are the guy who'll decide where to go."(Seuss, Dr. (1990). Oh, the places you'll go!. New York, NY: Random House.)The poem is still fitting for me. I feel I'm in the waiting stage:"Everyone is just waiting.Waiting for the fish to biteor waiting for the wind to fly a kiteor waiting around for Friday nightor waiting, perhaps, for their Uncle Jake 😢or a pot to boil, or a Better Break"Are there any other words you would like to share?Jacob, I miss you every day. Not a day goes by without you in my thoughts. I love you to the moon and back, infinity times over, with a heart that is shattered and aching — but loving you just as fiercely as ever.”Jacob is deeply loved. He is missed every single day. And no matter how much time passes, his mum is, and always will be, his mum.This Mother’s Day, we honour mothers who are waiting, hoping, and loving without falter.With heartfelt thanks to Jacob’s loved ones for trusting us with their words and helping us share who Jacob truly is.You can find Jacob's profile here.If you have information that may assist police to locate Jacob please call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

International Siblings Day recognises the lifelong bond between brothers and sisters. A connection shaped by shared childhoods, memories, and experiences that often extends beyond words.For the families of missing persons, this bond continues even in the absence of answers. Siblings carry memories of who their brother or sister was growing up and who they became, how they were known within their family, and the role they continue to hold in their lives.As part of our 2025 National Missing Persons Week campaign “Forever Loved”, we received a letter written by Paul, the brother of missing person, Lorrin Whitehead. This letter offers a deeply personal perspective of Lorrin, one shaped by growing up together and by the enduring connection and hope that remains after a loved one goes missing.Through his words, the letter shares insights into the person that many of us have only known through a photograph. It reflects moments, memories, and characteristics that only a sibling can truly know, and offers a stark reminder that missing persons are so much more than a name on a register, or an image on a social tile, they are brothers, sisters, daughters, sons, parents, friends and so much more.To mark International Siblings Day, we are sharing the letter from Paul in full below.We acknowledge and thank the family of Lorrin Whitehead for sharing this letter and allowing for it to be shared again, which serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing and deeply personal impact of missing persons on those left behind.Letter from Paul: You are loved. Stay strong if you can. “I will be your voice until you are able to speak for yourself.” When you are, I will be standing there right beside you. Do I say Lorrin ‘is’ or Lorrin ‘was’?  This question has hung over every thought and every conversation I have had about Lorrin since her disappearance 12 years ago. For now, I choose to say Lorrin ‘was’ because she may have changed or have been made to change. She may not be alive. I simply don’t know.  I do know that bad things happen to normal people. Lorrin was normal.   Growing up, Lorrin was fun, warm and spirited and as an adult, was the same, true to herself.  She was happy and laughed a lot. She was bold, brave and loyal. She was also a bit of a dreamer. While by nature, a positive person, like all normal people, Lorrin was sometimes sad, angry and cried. She could be frightened. Particularly when she felt let down or betrayed by those she loved and trusted.  I know this because Lorrin is my sister. At the time she went missing, Lorrin was all those things. Dealing with the fallout of a difficult and acrimonious divorce meant that she was sad, angry and frightened as a normal person would be. As a single mum, she faced normal challenges of bringing up young and teenage children, and like all normal parents, could become irritated & frustrated. However, Lorrin was optimistic, looking forward to moving on from the divorce, had plans and dreams for her future including going back to study and at some point, to travel. She absolutely loved being a mum.  She was beginning to explore new relationships. She was happy. It is surreal to see her name and face on ‘missing persons posters’, the subject of media stories and police enquiries. Can this really be happening?  It is.  The possibility that Lorrin is suffering or has suffered, or has gone somewhere against her will and being powerless to stop or change that is humbling and devastating. I am angry.  I question whether I missed something she said. Could I have done anything to prevent her disappearance?  And now, when together as a family, enjoying and celebrating good times, the confronting reality is that she is not there. The guilt surfaces. Is it okay to laugh, smile and enjoy ourselves? It has to be. Life is for living. The impact on Lorrin’s loved ones is sad, particularly our parents who, despite their incredible resilience, feel her absence every minute of every day. They are old now. They deserve answers. There is sadness too in the thought of the unfulfilled potential of Lorrin’s life, her ambitions and her dreams. Since 2012, I’ve tried but failed to be her voice. I allowed myself to be ignored by those who preferred an easy answer, drowned out by those who have used her story and sought the limelight to promote themselves, and by those who want to confuse and hide the truth. As a result, opportunities have been missed; time and energy wasted looking in the wrong direction and people with information put off from coming forward.   Until now.            I believe that things are changing at last. I am being listened to. As are other different voices, those who really care for Lorrin. Through us, she is being heard. With this change comes hope. Hope that I can keep her story alive and ensure that it is told truthfully and accurately. Hope that people with information now feel confident and safe to come forward to further amplify Lorrin’s voice. Someone out there knows what happened.  They have information that will lead us to Lorrin and bring closure.  Lorrin’s case has generated a lot of attention and publicity. Some people might ask why this is? The truth is, I don’t know. She is no more or less important than others who have gone missing or suffered tragedy. Bad things happen to normal people. Their stories deserve to be heard as much as Lorrin’s. Finding Lorrin is important to me. I will be her voice until she is able to speak for herself. When she does, I will be standing there right beside her.You can view Lorrin’s profile here.If you have information that may assist police to locate Lorrin please call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. 

The April 2026 missing persons poster (PDF, 5.3MB) is now available!Have you seen any of these people? Gay FultonVince PolicarpioHelen Evonne BarkerDean Barry EdwardsMargaret Anne BernieBenjamin Matthew SenequeTyrone Frederick MacQueenEdan HuntingtonDennis Bradford ColeLuke GourlayMark Jeffery HeffernanMarcia Ann RyanPatrick LiedkeGavin Moresby-WhiteWayne Bruce CampbellAccess all missing persons posters.

For most of us, the holiday period is a time of joy, full of laughter, familiar faces and treasured traditions, but for the loved ones of missing persons, Christmas can feel incomplete.In recognition of Christmas 2025, and to further reiterate to the community that there are real loved ones waiting and hoping as part of every missing persons case, the NMPCC shared wishes from the families of missing persons, accompanied by precious memories of holidays past. Through our campaign "All I want for Christmas is you", we featured four different missing Australians, Troy Woods, Kay Maree Corp, Cameron David Twiss, and John Thomas Norrish, whose families all want the same thing; to be together again.“All I want for Christmas is to hear your voice”Mum and dad of Troy Woods“All I want for Christmas is for you to remember the happy times and remember there are people who love you.”Mum, dad, brother and daughter of Kay Maree Corp“All we want for Christmas is for you to be here with us.”Dad, mum and brother of Cameron Twiss“All I want for Christmas is notification of what happened to John, so our family can get closure”Sister of John Thomas NorrishIf you are a family member of a missing person and are in need of assistance, please see our support services page.

The October 2025 missing persons poster is now available!Have you seen any of these people? David Abuoi Gabrielle Malak ArokLeslie Wayne KeatingKathleen RiethmullerBarry PodmoreTristan Lloyd GriffithsJamilla HumphreyBarry CalvertHeather MarksPaul Anthony BakerWarren MeyerPeter HodginsSteven John BaileyGraham Harold LinesDamian Partridge-BurderAdam Timothy JohnsonAccess all missing persons posters.