Cop in charge of search for missing Byron Bay backpacker Theo Hayez was inexperienced, heard inquest

The police officer who led the initial search for a backpacker missing in Byron Bay was inexperienced, missing vital training and would conduct the operation very differently with the benefit of hindsight.

Speaking at an inquest into the disappearance of Theo Hayez on Wednesday – the same day police announced a $500,000 reward for information in his case – Senior Constable Louis Papworth admitted he had only conducted two minor searches before the Belgian teen went missing.

Both were launched within hours of when the subject was last seen and both people were located quickly.

Sen Const Papworth said the magnitude, logistical considerations and…