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Australia's authorities have suspended the search for a young boy who has been lost in the wilderness for almost three weeks, after renewed efforts failed to find any evidence of the child.

Sequence of Incidents

Gus Lamont was observed enjoying himself outside his residence on a isolated rural property near Yunta, about 186 miles from Adelaide, on 27 September.

His grandmother left him alone for about a short period before returning, only to discover the youngster nowhere to be found, triggering one of the biggest land and air searches in local records.

Present Situation

Authorities - who do not believe foul play - say they will persist examining, but that the matter has become a "search for recovery".

Earlier, officials temporarily scaled back the hunt, only to recommence it on this week alongside 80 military personnel.

"Spokesperson authorities said officials were scanning a more extensive zone based on updated analyses from medical and rescue specialists, rather than any fresh leads."

Operation Difficulties

On the end of last week, officials confirmed that the recent operation had not uncovered any evidence of the boy.

"The fact that the child is a small child, the environment is extremely rugged, unforgiving and affected by variable weather conditions has made the operation difficult and more challenging for those engaged," officials said in a release.

About a vast area - an zone approximately double the dimensions of urban center - has now been scanned, and a twelve-member unit set up recently is expected to carry on looking into. Authorities have not ruled out more operations of the location in the coming days.

Description and Social Response

The child, who has been portrayed as an explorative but reserved youngster, was observed clothed in a grey headwear, light grey trousers, footwear and a azure long-sleeve top showing a yellow cartoon character.

The incident has sparked huge interest throughout Australia, with pictures of the blond, curly-headed child featured across publications and conjecture running rife online.

It caused officials to appeal that citizens cease calling them with their "theories", and urge for them to access updates from reliable places.

Family Statement

Police earlier this week said the child's relatives continue to be "strong" despite the difficult circumstances.

"One can understand just how they are coping... without having answers as to exactly where their child is and what's transpired to him. This would be heartbreaking for any loved ones," Commissioner authorities said.

Via a spokesperson, the relatives loved ones has earlier said they are "overwhelmed" by their son's loss.

"This constitutes a shock to our household and loved ones, and we are finding it difficult to comprehend what has happened," Bill Harbison said.

"Their son's disappearance is felt in everyone, and we yearn for him exceeding expressions can describe."