Pimpana man, William Dilworth, missing for four days, in the rugged bush of northern New South Wales

A 66-year-old Gold Coast man who has been missing since Wednesday has been found in a rugged bushland in northern New South Wales.

A police-led search for William Dilworth focused on Billil Creek, southwest of Murwillumbah, where the missing man’s vehicle was found on Thursday.

A family friend who was involved in a police and volunteer search operation found Mr Dilworth safe and sound this afternoon.

He had fallen into a canyon in a region of dense rainforest.

His son, Scott Dilworth, said it was hard to put into words what it meant to find his father living in Pimpama and suffering from dementia.

“There are so many people roaming this terrain,” Dilworth said.

“I don’t know where to start and stop by thanking these people. It’s just an amazing feeling. I have no words.”

“He fell, wrapped himself in a vine, hit a tree, and was unable to move again.”

Detective Tweed Byron Chief Inspector Matt Kehoe said there was great concern for Mr Dilworth’s well-being for a long time after he went missing.

“He was found and still alive when we got the call…that’s just great news,” he said.

Kehoe said the results are particularly encouraging for volunteer emergency services such as local fire departments, the National Emergency Service and the Volunteer Rescue Association.

“They all came here in their own timing and were looking for three days,” he said.

“To find this man alive and see the reaction of his family, I think that’s why people [volunteer search] Do it. “

Mr. Dilworth was flown by helicopter to Lismore Base Hospital for further evaluation.