Father vows 'we will find her' as hiker search hits day six

The father of a teenage hiker missing in the New South Wales Southern Highlands has made an emotional public vow to find his daughter, as search and rescue operations stretched into their sixth consecutive day.

Speaking to reporters, the determined father delivered a resolute message: "We're going to find her." His words came as fatigue and anxiety mount among family members and the growing network of volunteers and emergency personnel combing the rugged bushland terrain.

The search, coordinated by NSW Police and State Emergency Service crews, has focused on remote stretches of the Southern Highlands region — an area known for its dramatic escarpments, dense native bushland and unpredictable weather conditions that can challenge even experienced walkers.

Southern Highlands terrain presents serious difficulties for search operations. Steep gullies, thick scrub and limited mobile phone coverage can hamper both navigation and communication, making the task of locating a missing person especially complex.

Authorities have deployed a combination of ground teams, aerial assets and specialist search dogs across the area. The scale of the response reflects both the urgency of the situation and the challenging nature of the landscape.

The teenager had been hiking in the region when she was reported missing. While police have not released full details of her intended route, searches have been concentrated across multiple grid sectors, with teams working in shifts to maintain continuous coverage through daylight hours.

Family members have maintained a presence near the search hub, with the girl's father emerging as a central figure in public communications. His unflinching determination has resonated with local communities, many of whom have offered support and joined volunteer search parties.

NSW Police urged anyone with information about the missing hiker's movements — including other walkers or drivers who may have seen her — to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Any detail, however seemingly minor, could prove significant as the search continues.

Authorities have not disclosed whether any personal items or physical clues have been recovered during the six days of searching. Police confirmed the investigation remains active and that resources will continue to be committed to the operation.

The Southern Highlands, located roughly two hours south-west of Sydney, is a popular destination for bushwalkers and day-trippers, but its extensive wilderness areas demand careful preparation and navigation skills. Rescue services regularly respond to incidents involving walkers who become lost or injured in the region.

As the search enters its seventh day, the father's vow remains the most powerful expression of a family's refusal to give up hope.