Rescued 72-year-old outback prospector Brian Brady thanks Mt Magnet police

A Perth prospector, whose survival after four days lost in the Mid West outback was described as ‘miraculous’, has had an emotional reunion with some of his rescuers.

Brian Brady, 72, was found by emergency services on Wednesday, May 31, after he went missing on Saturday, May 27, when he went for a walk and did not return while on a prospecting trip with two friends near Lake Austin, a salt lake 45km north of Mount Magnet.

An extensive search was launched for Mr Brady, involving more than 20 personnel scouring the area. Footprints in the sand located by police led rescuers to Mr Brady.

He was found 17km from where he was last seen, with his gold detector still in his hand. Mr Brady was severely dehydrated and taken to Meekatharra hospital to recover, before being discharged on Saturday.

After being released from hospital, Mr Brady stopped in to Mount Magnet Police Station to thank some of the officers who helped find him.

According to Geraldton Police: “Brian and his family are forever grateful to the whole team.”

Mid West Gascoyne Police Superintendent Steve Post said Mr Brady’s rescue was “miraculous” as hope was fading for a good outcome.

“I would be lying if I didn’t say I had some concerns,” he said. “With four days of searching, survivability becomes very limited in those kind of environments.”

Police — including trackers from the tactical response group — SES crews, the local community, mining companies, helicopter business and local Cue roadhouse all helped in the operation to find Mr Brady.