Not having any bush experience, he lost himself, and was never seen again.

A long and painful search followed, but owing to some mischance, Cunningham's tracks were lost on the third day, and it was not until the 23rd of the month that they were again found.

Larmer, the assistant-surveyor, and three men were sent to follow them up until they found the lost man.

Three days later they returned, having come across only the horse he had ridden, dead, with the saddle and bridle still on.

Mitchell personally conducted the further search.