Grim update in frantic search for missing magician Daniel Hidden as his body is found in Currumbin Valley
A magician has been found dead after he disappeared in Queensland bushland.
Daniel Hidden, 26, was last seen leaving his home on Chelsea Avenue in Broadbeach, on the Gold Coast, in the early hours of June 14.
Two days later, his silver Hyundai Santa Fe and Galaxy caravan, along with abandoned personal belongings, were found by police along the side of the road in the Currumbin Valley, sparking a desperate search.
His body was found at Mount Cougal National Park at 11am on Wednesday.
More than 100 personnel joined in the search with members of the Australian Defence Force taking part.
Drones and Polair resources had also been deployed as crews navigated through the rugged terrain and dense bushland.
The discovery comes after his family shared an emotional plea on Tuesday, asking the public to help find him.
His brother Ilya Jamshidi said it was not uncommon for Mr Hidden to go camping, but it was unusual that he hadn’t contacted them in several days.
Daniel Hidden, 26, was last seen leaving his Broadbeach home in the early hours of June 14
‘He hasn’t taken his phone with him, which is a bit unusual,’ he said.
‘A week without contact or shelter, that’s pretty unusual to us.’
He added that his brother doesn’t like sticking to marked tracks and ‘desires the hardship in unexplored places’.
Mr Hidden’s mother Faranak added yesterday that she remained hopeful he was still alive.
‘He is very strong and I believe in him,’ she said.
‘I still hope that he is still alive and that he needs help.’
Ms Jamshidi claimed her son did not seem to be his usual self when she saw him last, and that he was no stranger to the area.
‘He usually comes here because this is his favourite spot, he’d come for a few hours just to think,’ she said.
Mr Hidden’s silver Hyundai Santa Fe and Galaxy caravan, along with abandoned personal belongings, were found by police along the side of the road in the Currumbin Valley, sparking a desperate search
‘It reminds him of memories from his childhood in Iran and going to the mountains with his friend.
‘He found similarities between there and here.’
Ms Jamshidi revealed that her son had a tattoo of the coordinates of a place near the search area.
Mr Hidden’s death is not being treated as suspicious.
Queensland Police will prepare a report for the Coroner.
Investigations are continuing.
Also a cruise ship entertainer with Virgin Voyages, Mr Hidden had almost 7,000 followers on Instagram.
He last posted on his social media account on June 10 – four days before he disappeared.
If you need support, contact Lifeline 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue 1300 224 636
