Police are urging bushwalkers to plan ahead and carry personal location beacons after three rescue operations in the Alpine region today.
In the first incident, officers attached to Monaro Police District were deployed following a Triple Zero (000) call from a 33-year-old man who had become separated from his companion following a significant change to the weather conditions.
The man – who did not have appropriate equipment, clothing, provisions or experience – was subsequently rescued following a multi-agency land search.
A second rescue operation was initiated about 7pm today (Saturday 15 November 2025), with police deploying a SES Alpine Rescue team after a Personal Location Beacon (PLB) was set off in the vicinity of Mullers Pass within Kosciuszko National Park. SES rescuers found a 53-year-old man suffering the effects of fatigue in deteriorating weather conditions.
While responding to that incident, the operators saw a SOS signalled from the vicinity of Mt Townsend and a second rescue operation was initiated. A further two lost hikers were subsequently located by that second SES team, with both groups now enroute to Rawsons Pass.
Monaro Police are urging hikers to ensure before they leave they,
- Have enough water, food, equipment and first aid supplies
- Checked weather conditions and monitor during your trip. Do NOT venture out if severe or detoriating weather is forecast
- Ensure you have appropriate clothing for the forecast conditions, as well as wet weather gear
- Register your trip: fill in a Trip Intention form
- Carry an emergency Personal Locator Beacon (PLB)
- Keep to your planned route, and
- Let a trusted family member or friend know when you are due home, and tell them to alert police if you do not arrive at the nominated time.
