Authorities in north-west Victoria are conducting a search for a hiker who went missing after not returning to his group following a solo trek.

Identified as 25-year-old Andy, he had been camping with a group of 14 individuals at Murray-Sunset National Park. On the previous day, around 11 a.m., he chose to hike a nearby trail that leads toward the South Australian border, separating from his companions.

Andy was expected to return to the Shearers Quarters camping site to depart with the group today. However, he has not yet come back from his hike, prompting police to initiate a search operation for him.

The search involves multiple agencies, including the Air Wing, Dog Squad, Mounted Branch, Search and Rescue Squad personnel, and the State Emergency Service. There are growing concerns for Andy’s safety, particularly due to his lack of hiking experience and the duration of his absence.

Described as having an Asian appearance, Andy stands at 173 centimeters tall and has a slim physique. At the time he was last seen, he was wearing a black hooded sweatshirt, grey track pants, and black steel-toed boots, and was carrying a black backpack.

Police are appealing to the public for any information regarding Andy’s whereabouts and encourage anyone who may have seen him to reach out to Mildura Police Station.