Body of experienced hiker Alistair Thompson found on mountain

A man who went missing on the Larapinta Trail in the Northern Territory more than a week ago has been found dead. 

Victorian Alistair Thomson, 64, set off alone on May 13 and last contacted family via text message on May 21. 

The experienced hiker told his family that he planned to arrive at Hugh Gorge by May 22, but made no further contact and failed to check into his hotel.

Police began a search operation on Wednesday, honing in on ‘Section 6’ of the trail and an area to its south. 

They deployed an Australian Defence Force aircraft, a helicopter and motorbikes to assist volunteers who scoured the area on foot.

Police confirmed that Mr Thomson’s body had been located near a water hole in Hugh Gorge on Sunday night, but did not provide details of the circumstances surrounding his death.

Acting Superintendent Michael Budge described the outcome as ‘extremely terrible’ and said the initially discovery was made via a drone, 90km west of Alice Springs on the Larapinta Trail.

An operation has now been launched to retrieve Mr Thomson’s body.

His family said they are ‘devastated by the loss’. 

‘We want to give our heartfelt thanks to the Northern Territory police and emergency services, Australian Defence Force members and all volunteers and community members that tirelessly assisted with the search, and that have supported us over these trying few days,’ the family said in a statement.

‘We will be forever grateful for their assistance in helping us bring Alistair home.’ 

Mr Thomson had served as a councillor on Strathbogie Shire Council in regional Victoria from 2016 to 2020.

The council’s administrator, Peter Stephenson, extended heartfelt condolences to Mr Thompson’s family and friends.

‘His knowledge, experience and dedication have made a significant and lasting impact on the Strathbogie community,’ he told ABC News.   

The rugged Larapinta Trail in the West MacDonnell Ranges attracts thousands of hikers each year.

A report will be prepared for the coroner.