The search for a Launceston man missing in southern bushland for nearly five days will continue on Wednesday.
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Bruce Fairfax disappeared while walking on the Duckhole Lake track with his wife, Louise.
For more than four days, 60 people have been searching scrubland to try and find the former Launceston Church Grammar teacher, but there has been no sign of him since Saturday.
Police said on Tuesday afternoon Mr Fairfax’s chance of survival was diminishing daily.
The 66-year-old has Parkinson’s disease and has no access to his medication, which he normally takes at least four times a day.
“Without access, it’s very debilitating and it’s likely his mobility is severely compromised to the point where he’s unlikely to be in a position to call out for assistance,” Tasmania Police Inspector David Wiss said.
Inspector Wiss has been based at the scene since Saturday, coordinating the search from the police forward command post, which was setup on the track.
He said the biggest challenge had been the terrain.
"A lot of searchers have been coming back with scratches and bruises,” he said.
“The volunteers in particular have been doing an incredible job and we thank them for their contribution.”
Among those searching for Mr Fairfax has been his family, including his wife and daughters.
“It’s a very traumatic time for the family but it is beneficial for them to have been included in the search parties,” Inspector Wiss said.
Launceston Church Grammar School headmaster Stephen Norris said staff members had also been part of the search party, including the school’s outdoor education team, his former students and other staff with “outdoor experience”.
“The family are in our thoughts and prayers,” Mr Norris said.
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As the search continues in the south, words of support for the family have been shared by people in the North.
Launceston mayor Albert van Zetten said Mr Fairfax was a "well-respected man" and had contributed greatly to his community.
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family, his friends and all those that know him,” he said.
“It’s a very difficult situation and we pray he is found safe and well soon.”
The search was stood down again overnight Tuesday.
Inspector Wiss said the search would continue on Wednesday morning but would be a targeted operation with police, SES and official rescue personnel.
He said if Mr Fairfax remained missing after Wednesday, police would need to “make a decision” about whether the search would continue on Thursday.