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Tasmania Police recover body two weeks after floods

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Police have recovered the body of a man believed to be Peter Watson, who was swept away in floodwaters in northern Tasmania more than a fortnight ago.

The body was discovered about midday in the South Esk River at Evandale near Launceston.

Acting Inspector Phil Summers said the body was found about a kilometre from where Mr Watson went missing.

Man swept away feared dead
• Woman’s body found in home in Tassie floods

“It was caught on some willows so it snagged on the side of the river,” he said.

“The area had been searched by both family groups and by police and SES but we deliberately waited a few days because we wanted the water levels to drop and also the condition of the water, a bit more visible today so today was a great result for the family.

“I’m pretty happy after viewing the body and some photos that it’s the missing person but we will have to confirm that through some formal ID.”

Acting Inspector Summers said he hoped it would give the family closure.

“As hard as it is they’re just happy that they’ve finally got a result,” he said.

A report will be prepared for the coroner.

Authorities are continuing to search for Trevor Foster who disappeared in floodwaters in Ouse.

Inspector Matthew said the search for Mr Foster had, so far, found no sign of him.

“We understand how important it is to return the missing person to his family, to provide them with some closure, and despite our considerable efforts we have not been successful so far,” he said.

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