Mark Tromp, the man at the centre of a bizarre interstate family trip, has apologised for the "hurt and concern" caused by the "ordeal".
Mr Tromp, his wife Jacoba and their three adult children hurriedly fled their home in Silvan in Victoria, without any clear destination last Tuesday which sparked the baffling mystery.
Mitchell, 25, was the first to abandon the road trip, fleeing the family near Bathurst to return to Melbourne via Sydney.
Riana, 29, and Ella, 22, left their parents in the Blue Mountains, before heading to Goulburn.
Mark Tromp Statement:
"In recent days my family has been through a difficult period. We will soon be reunited and together, hope that we will begin to make sense of our ordeal and return to a normal life.
I am conscious of the burden these events have placed upon our extended family, friends and the community resources devoted to our aid.
Without reservation, I apologise for the hurt and concern caused by these events. On behalf of our family, express our deep gratitude to Victoria and New South Wales Police, as well as the health care professionals who have looked after our physical and mental well-being.
More than anything, my family and I need time to recover and receive appropriate assistance, including mental health services. To this end, we request that media organisations respect our request for privacy."
STATEMENT ENDS
Support and information about mental health issues can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or beyondblue on 1300 224 636.