Workers carrying out routine plumbing work at a residential property on Phillip Island were confronted with a disturbing discovery on Thursday morning after suspected human remains were unearthed, prompting a major police response and the establishment of a crime scene.
Emergency services were called to a property on Hazelwood Court in the Silverleaves area shortly after 8.30am, after workers reportedly uncovered bones during excavation work. Authorities said the remains are “believed to be human”, though their age and origin have yet to be determined.
In a statement, Victoria Police said plumbing works were under way when the discovery was made at about 8.35am. Officers quickly attended the scene, cordoning off the property while specialist forensic teams began initial examinations.
“A crime scene has been established and police remain on site,” a police spokesperson said. “The remains will undergo forensic testing to determine their identity and the circumstances surrounding how they came to be at the location.”
The quiet coastal community of Silverleaves, known for its holiday homes and tranquil setting, was left shaken by the incident. Several residents reported seeing multiple police vehicles and emergency personnel in the street throughout the morning, as investigators worked behind cordons.
At this stage, police have not confirmed whether the remains are linked to any missing persons cases, nor have they indicated how long the bones may have been buried. Detectives are expected to review historical records and consult forensic anthropologists as part of the investigation.
Authorities emphasised that it is too early to speculate about the nature of the discovery, including whether it is connected to criminal activity. The outcome of forensic testing will guide the next steps of the investigation.
Police have urged members of the public to avoid the area while investigations continue and to contact Crime Stoppers if they have any information that could assist investigators.
Phillip Island, located southeast of Melbourne and best known for its penguin colony and tourism, rarely sees incidents of this nature.
