Search for missing teenager William heads into fourth day

Day four of the search for teenager William continues today in the Cowwarr area, northwest of the Cowwarr Weir near Walhalla.

Police have now spoken to the occupants of a white 4WD they appealed for yesterday and they have assisted with information.

The 17-year-old was with stepbrother when he was last seen in the vicinity of Stoney Creek Road, between Cowwarr and Walhalla, near T2 Track on 6 November about 4pm.

William, also known as Will, was dropped off by his mother for the purposes of camping for the weekend when he walked a short distance to the dropoff location to retrieve further camping equipment.

When he failed to return shortly after, his stepbrother searched the area but found no trace of Will.

Police believe at this stage he may have become disorientated and lost his way in the surrounding terrain.

Will was wearing minimal clothes at the time – a pair of shorts and work boots.

His mobile phone was left behind along with food and water.

Also still missing is a tacklebox, pillows and a fold out tabletop.

It is unknown whether Will made it back to the dropoff location and collected these items.

Police are also appealing for anyone that was travelling in the Cowwarr, stoney creek and lower Thomson River areas on Friday who may have dash cam or any further information it contact the local Sale police station on (03) 5142 2200.

Images of William have been released in the hope someone recognises him, and it assists in the search.

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Police have set up a command post in Cowwarr to coordinate the search, which involves local police resources from Maffra, Sale, Rosedale, Morwell, Bairnsdale and bikes from the Gippsland motorcycle branch.

Officers from the Public Order Response Team, Dog Squad, Mounted Branch, Search and Rescue Squad will be on site and searching today with support from State Emergency Services personnel.

Anyone who sights Will is urged to call Triple Zero (000) or with information on his whereabouts is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or the local Sale police station on (03) 5142 2200.