Forensics have begun digging for the remains of suspected murder victim Rebecca Delalande at an industrial site in Bayswater.
Machinery was brought in over the weekend to remove concrete slabs and a sea container in preparation for the search.
Rockingham man Chris Blennerhassett, 45, has been charged with Ms Delalande's murder.
He appeared in the Perth Magistrates Court on Sunday and was remanded in custody until his next court appearance on November 28.
Cold case homicide squad detective Sen. Sgt Craig Stephen said a public appeal last week led police to the site and to Mr Blennerhassett’s arrest.
“Information we have received from the public and our investigations have led us to come here,” he said.
“We are hoping that people can still come forward and can provide more information as we piece together what happened to Ms Delalande.”
Detectives have not yet revealed the link between the accused and the Bayswater industrial site.
The Perth mother was last seen 17-years-ago at a Seville Grove house.
The then 23-year-old was not in regular contact with her family at the time of her disappearance in 2001 and police only realised she was missing late last year.
Concerns for missing man last seen in Medina
Man charged after slashing victim's neck with glass in Madora Bay
Rockingham disability accommodation and social housing refurbished thanks to State Government grant
Local fishers asked to have their say on extending crabbing season closure, simplifying bag and boat limit rules
Detectives hunt driver who reversed into Mandurah tobacco store
Mandurah Crab Fest boasts huge range of free, family friendly entertainment
Fuel prices surge in Perth, Mandurah
Teen boys charged over Mandurah burglaries
Tragic update in search for missing man Robert Snyder