Search Continues for Missing 4-Year-Old Gus Lamont in Australian Outback

Four-year-old Augustus “Gus” Lamont disappeared on September 27 while playing near his family’s Oak Park Station sheep property, about 25 miles south of Yunta, South Australia. Left alone briefly, Gus vanished before his grandmother could call him inside. Since then, a massive search has gripped the nation, with friends, family, and rescuers combing the harsh Outback terrain.

Locals fear Gus may have wandered into dangerous areas such as old, unmarked mine shafts or wells—relics from gold rushes and livestock days hidden amid rugged land. After hours of family searching, emergency crews, helicopters, and skilled Aboriginal trackers joined the hunt, scouring the 60,000-hectare station for ten exhausting days.

Despite their efforts, only a single small footprint was found about 500 meters from the homestead—later deemed unrelated. Experienced search volunteer Jason O’Connell expressed doubt Gus remained on the property, noting the absence of birds of prey that typically indicate a body nearby.

Last week, authorities shifted the search from rescue to recovery following expert advice, handing the investigation to the Missing Persons Section. Deputy Commissioner Linda Williams vowed to keep pursuing new leads and praised the family’s cooperation.

Meanwhile, the Lamont family has faced painful “online vitriol” and uninvited visitors, adding to their grief. Friends urge compassion and respect for this gentle family enduring unimaginable loss.

We hope for a miracle and that Gus will be found safe. Our thoughts remain with the Lamonts during this heartbreaking ordeal.