A year after Theo's disappearance, Hayez family searches for answers

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The family of Belgian teenager Theo Hayez is still pushing for answers and pleading for anyone with information to come forward as the one-year anniversary of his disappearance approaches.

The then 18-year-old disappeared on May 31 last year. He was reported missing in early June at Byron Bay's WakeUp! Backpacker hostel, when they noticed he had not checked out of his room.

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Lehore Hayez, Theo's father, speaks to media in June 2019.Danielle Smith

Mr Hayez was last seen at Byron Bay's Cheeky Monkey's bar on Friday, May 31 about 11pm. He was wearing a black hooded jumper, beige pants and black shoes.

His family issued a statement on Monday evening, thanking the public for their support over the past 12 months, and helping them to "endure this nightmare".

They've also set up a new website calling on anyone who was in that part of NSW in May or June of 2019 to come forward.

"One year on, we believe that there is much more to Théo's story than has been brought to light," the statement read.

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A missing persons flyer near a beach.AAP

"Theo's family and friends, those living in Byron Bay and everyone who is concerned for the safety of young travellers are eager for the full story of that night to be understood."

Mr Hayez had been on a backpacking gap year around Australia, with Byron Bay the penultimate stop on his months-long tour. He had told his family how keen he was to come home and begin his university studies.

After several months, the search was formally ended by the NSW coroner in September.

The Byron community was active in the search, with members of the public gathering in the area between Byron Beach and Tallow Beach near Tallows Ridge, where Mr Hayez's phone last pinged. One man even brought a metal detector.

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Backpacker Theo Hayez was last seen in Byron Bay in May 2019.Facebook

The State Emergency Service, surf lifesaving groups and police dog units have aided in the search, as well as community groups, which have been praised by police.

Despite the extensive search efforts of last year, the family has "high hopes" that new evidence could still be brought to light.

"We are begging for witnesses to come forward. We continue our plea to anyone who might be withholding information to come forward," the statement read.

"We know that many people are struggling at the moment and we are so grateful for all the different ways that people continue to show their support and their love."