Police are searching for a missing Harrietville man, believed to be travelling in a car towards Mitta, after his vehicle was captured travelling along the Great Alpine Road last night.
Jacobus, also known as John, was reported missing after he failed to arrive home after leaving the Harrietville Hotel just after 8pm last night.
The 85-year-old was driving his 2007 silver Toyota Prado, with registration number WBD077, and was due to head home, 500m south from the hotel on the Great Alpine Road.
His vehicle was captured travelling east along the Great Alpine Road in Mother Johnson at 9.06pm, then through Omeo at 9.45pm and police believe he has continued towards Mitta.
John had attended the hotel with his wife, who as part of their regular routine, likes to walk home while he drives and they meet up at home.
Once home it was discovered John and his vehicle were not there.
Police and family members are very concerned for John as he does not travel very far by himself, and he was expected to go straight home.
Last night an extensive search conducted by local police between Harrietville and Bright around the townships and local tracks – along with a search by Air Wing around Mount Hotham and the Great Alpine Road – has failed to find any trace of John or his vehicle.
This morning the search resumed with assistance from the Air Wing and SES who have been conducting patrols at Hotham Heights, Dinner Plain and Harrietville.
Friends of John have also assisted in the search.
Police have released an image of John and his Toyota Prado which is fitted with a front nudge bar and two spot-lights.
John is described as Caucasian in appearance, has a slim build and is about 170cm tall.
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Police have been told he walks hunched over and uses a walking stick. He also can’t walk long distances as he becomes breathless.
He was wearing a chequered shirt, a vest, pants and possibly a hat.
Anyone who sights John or his vehicle is urged to contact Triple Zero (000).
