Urgent Search Underway for Missing Wollongong Woman, 75, with Dementia

Anthony Drive, Rosemeadow, Australia - In a worrying turn of events, authorities in the Illawarra region are urgently seeking the public’s assistance in locating 75-year-old Christine Daly, who has been reported missing. Christine was last seen at the Wollongong Railway Station at approximately 7:50 AM on Tuesday, June 24, 2025. Concerns for her well-being are amplified by the fact that she lives with dementia, a condition that puts her at a significantly higher risk of harm while missing.

The Lake Illawarra Police District has launched an active search for Christine, who may have been in the area around Anthony Drive, Rosemeadow, later that same day, though her exact whereabouts remain uncertain. Authorities are encouraging anyone with information to come forward, urging a swift response with a call to Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or through their online platform at NSW Crime Stoppers. Notably, they advise against using social media for reporting information to the police.

Community Concerns Grow

Christine is described as Caucasian, standing 160 cm tall, with a medium build and short grey hair. She was last seen donning a distinct white and black dress along with matching pants adorned with a small leaf print. Her family, deeply worried for her safety, have shared their fears with local media, highlighting her regular haunts which include areas such as Port Kembla, Wollongong, and Campbelltown. It’s heart-wrenching to consider that someone so loved is currently unaccounted for.

With the prevalence of individuals living with dementia who go missing steadily increasing, community involvement has become vital. Research has shown that missing persons with dementia face grave risks if they are not found within the first 24 hours. Initiatives such as the Community ASAP have been implemented in Canada to engage volunteers in locating such individuals, showcasing the importance of community vigilance in the search process. As noted in a study shared by National Institutes of Health, these localized systems have proven effective in rallying communities to assist law enforcement in these urgent situations.

How You Can Help

The urgency of the matter cannot be overstated. Police have emphasized the need for community members to be alert and observant. The simple act of keeping an eye out could make a life-saving difference. If you think you may have seen Christine or have any information regarding her last known whereabouts, do not hesitate to reach out to local law enforcement.

As searches continue and the days roll on, we encourage everyone, not just in Wollongong but throughout the surrounding areas, to come together in solidarity for Christine. Every person counts, and your assistance could be the key to bringing her home safely.

For further developments on this ongoing story, stay tuned to local news outlets and community bulletins as the situation unfolds.