From ‘elation’ to ‘terrible news’ in 10 minutes: how the confusion over missing bushwalker Lily Hooper unfolded

New South Wales Premier Chris Minns faced a note in parliament shortly before midday on Thursday, shifting the focus from uranium mining to the disappearance of 18-year-old hiker Lily Hooper. The note contained surprising news: Lily Hooper had been found alive. Relieved murmurs echoed around the room as MPs who had been following the missing hiker's story nodded in agreement.

Lily Hooper had embarked on a hike in Nattai National Park on Wednesday, August 12, with her car later discovered near Bonnum Pic Walking Trail, sparking a massive search operation involving nearly 1,000 people. The Premier expressed gratitude to the police, SES, defence personnel, and others who had joined the search.

Just 25 minutes later, Minns was handed another note with devastating news: Lily's body had been found and she had unfortunately passed away. The Premier apologized to the committee, expressing his sorrow for the error that had caused such significant distress. The miscommunication arose due to a delay in effectively relaying the information, which had led to Ms Hooper's family believing she was alive.

In the brief period of eight to ten minutes between the initial discovery and the subsequent announcement, the family's emotions swung from relief to profound grief. Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon deeply apologized to the Hooper family, acknowledging the devastating impact of the miscommunication on their lives. The Commissioner confirmed that the incorrect report had passed through police commands up to the offices of both the Premier and the Police Minister, acknowledging that the information was received well in advance of the public.

The mishap has now prompted a review of communication protocols, with a focus on balancing speed and accuracy to prevent future tragedies.