A FRANTIC search is underway for a bushwalker who has been missing since the start of this month.

Damien Roadley, 38, was last seen at 3.30pm on August 1 just before he left for the overnight trip at Blue Knob Mountain near Nimbin, in the state’s north.

Police said Mr Roadley had contacted relatives on his mobile phone just before 7pm expressing concern about a campfire that had spiralled out of control.

Alarm bells were raised the next day when he didn’t return and he was subsequently reported missing to the authorities.

Police manage to locate several items such as camping equipment and food during the initial search but has since drawn a blank on the missing camper.

Friends and relatives have told local publication Echo Net Daily that they remained optimistic that Mr Damien was still alive as no body was found after the fire was put out.

They believe he lost his way within the dense bushland.

Mr Roadley brother Kim told the publication: “We are still searching for Damien.

‘It’s rugged terrain and so the safety of those searching is concern, as well as Damien’s safety obviously.’

On Friday, the search for the missing dad continued with assistance from the Police Rescue Unit, Dog Unit, Westpac Helicopter, Rural Fire Service, Volunteer Rescue Association and State Emergency Service.

Mr Roadley is described as being of caucasian appearance, 65-170cm tall, medium build, with brown hair and brown eyes.

At this time of his disappearance he was wearing blue jeans, a dark grey T-shirt with a kangaroo motif on the back, a green ‘Nimbin Headers’ hooded jumper and hiking boots.