Forensic tests may help in search

Police are awaiting the results of tests on a substance suspected to be blood, found near where a man disappeared more than five weeks ago.

Ben Plowright, 20, was last seen about 9.30pm on May 30 after he left a party at Perth, south of Launceston in Tasmania, despite extensive air, land and river searches.

Investigators are using more precise equipment to retest samples taken from an expanded area on and around Mill Road in the township.

Police have previously said Mr Plowright is not believed to have met with "foul play".