Troy Milne: Missing Camper Last Seen ‘Lost and Confused’ in Victoria’s High Country
As of October 12, 2025, Troy Milne, a 53-year-old man camping in Victoria’s Gippsland region, Australia, remains missing after being last seen appearing “lost and confused” at a service station. Police are conducting an urgent search in the rugged high country, where his vehicle was detected on CCTV hours later, amid concerns for his welfare in the remote, weather-exposed terrain.
Timeline of Events
- Last Known Sighting: On Wednesday, October 9, 2025, Milne was captured on CCTV at a service station in Omeo, a small town in the Victorian Alps. Shop staff described him as “lost and confused,” providing directions back toward Bairnsdale, about 200 km southeast. He was reportedly picking up camping supplies before heading out.
- Vehicle Detection: His car—a silver Toyota Hilux utility—was last spotted on CCTV traveling along the Great Alpine Road in Swifts Creek at around 1 p.m. that same day. The road winds through dense bushland and steep terrain, popular for camping but prone to isolation.
- Reported Missing: Milne’s family raised the alarm on October 11 when he failed to return or contact them. He had been on a solo camping trip in the Licola area, known for its scenic rivers and forests but challenging access.
Search Efforts and Description
Victoria Police have launched ground and air searches, focusing on the Great Alpine Road and surrounding bushland between Omeo and Licola. A public appeal was issued on October 11, with dashcam and mobile phone footage being reviewed for leads. No suspicious circumstances are noted, but the area’s variable weather—recent cold snaps and potential for sudden fog—has heightened urgency.
- Description: Milne is Caucasian, about 180 cm tall, with a medium build, short brown hair, and brown eyes. He was last seen wearing a white singlet, grey jumper, black track pants, and black thongs (flip-flops). His vehicle is a silver Toyota Hilux with Victorian registration plates.
- Vehicle Details: The ute is distinctive, and police urge sightings to be reported immediately without approaching.
Official Statements
Senior Sergeant David Dunstan of Sale Police Station called it a “concerning disappearance,” noting Milne’s disorientation as a key factor: “He seemed unsure of his location and was seeking directions, which suggests he may have become turned around in the high country.” Authorities are appealing for information from anyone in the Omeo-Swifts Creek-Licola corridor on October 9.
This comes amid a spate of missing persons cases in remote Australian camping spots, where GPS blackouts and wildlife add risks. Similar to past incidents, like the 2024 search for a lost hiker in the Blue Mountains, early public tips could be crucial.
If you have information, contact Sale Police Station at (03) 5144 9500 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 (quote incident number 195-10-10-25). Stay safe out there—always share your plans and check in. Updates expected as the search continues; follow local news for developments. Our thoughts are with Troy’s family during this anxious wait.