Hat found in Byron Bay area could belong to missing backpacker Theo Hayez

Forensics are underway on a hat believed to have been found in the same Byron Bay area where missing Belgian tourist Theo Hayez's phone was last "pinged".

A missing persons flyer is seen near a beach as the search continues for missing backpacker Theo Hayez at Byron Bay. Source: AAP

A hat that could belong to missing Belgian backpacker Theo Hayez is being forensically examined after it was found in Byron Bay bushland.

The hat was handed to police after it was found by a member of the public in the same area where the last "ping" from Mr Hayez's phone was recorded on 1 June around the Cape Byron Lighthouse, AAP understands.

Belgian backpacker Theo Hayez, who vanished in Byron Bay in May 2019. Source: Facebook

It is being forensically examined to determine if it is relevant to the investigation into the 18-year-old traveller's disappearance, a NSW Police spokeswoman told AAP on Friday.

Mr Hayez was last seen on CCTV walking through the popular seaside NSW town after leaving the Cheeky Monkey's bar about 11pm on 31 May.

His belongings, including his passport, were left untouched at the Wake-Up hostel in Byron Bay.

Police spent nearly a month searching for Mr Hayez but failed to find him.

His parents also travelled from Belgium to join the search.