Police are appealing for public assistance to help locate missing woman Isla Bell.
The 20-year-old, was last seen leaving her home address in Brunswick on October 4 at about 6pm.
Police and family have concerns for her welfare due to the length of time she has been missing.
She is described as slim build, red hair, pale complexion and with nose, lip and eyebrow piercings.
Isla’s aunty Atalanti Dionysus gave a statement to Neos Kosmos on behalf of the family.
“Our family is devastated by the disappearance of my beloved niece, Isla. She is a kind, joyful, and deeply cherished part of our lives, and we are doing everything we can to bring her home safely,” she said.
“We are asking for the public’s help in sharing any information, no matter how small, that may assist the authorities in locating her.”
Isla would travel by public transport into the city, Carlton and St Kilda areas.
“We want to express our deepest gratitude to the police who are working tirelessly to find her, and to those who are posting her image across social media. Your support means everything to us during this incredibly difficult time.
“If anyone has seen Isla or knows anything that could help, we urge you to contact the police immediately. Your information could be vital in reuniting our family.
“We remain hopeful and continue to pray for Isla’s safe return.”
Speaking to media at Fawkner Police Station, Detective Acting Sergeant Dion Martin said they have been getting information on sightings from the public.
He said they have concerns because it is out of character and she hasn’t accessed or used her phone.
He added there is no evidence to suggest that Isla going missing is suspicious at this stage, and she is on medication and it’s unknown if she has or is still taking the medication.
Isla’s mother Justine while speaking to the media outside the station, sharing that her daughter is a good person with the biggest heart and for her to have no contact for so long is distressing and out of character.
“I last spoke with Isla, it would be about 16 days ago, we always talk to each other on the Sundays. We were planning for a reef trip for her birthday. She was really excited about that and we were looking forward to spending time together with her family up north,” she said.
Isla lives with her uncle, Justine’s brother, in Brunswick and has other family in Melbourne.
Today, October 22, is Isla’s birthday, and she would have gone on the planned trip.
When asked if she’s fearful someone is involved, she said she remains strong and hopeful in her heart that she is safe.
“Mothers’, you know, fears can go everywhere of course… My heart just aches.”
“Isla, you’re deeply and widely loved by so many people and your family and friends are just so distressed, darling.
“We love you so much and we just want to know you’re safe my darling.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Fawkner criminal investigation unit at (03) 9355 6000.
