Samantha Newton, Director of Operations NPA NSW
I’m sure many of you were following the story of the missing hiker in Kosciuszko NP early this year. There was relief when he was found after 13 days, but also many questions and much discussion about his movements and how he survived (hut muesli bars and feral blackberries?). It’s been interesting to read the commentary. From the comments of bushwalkers familiar with the area, it’s definitely rough and difficult terrain, even if you have the right gear.
Some key points I took away (in no particular order):
- Be prepared – every trip is different, do your homework to understand the risks and take appropriate gear and food, including navigational aids of maps and a compass.
- Stay with the group. If you do split the group, make sure it’s not just one person off by themselves, and make a clear plan for meeting up that includes location and estimated time.
- If you get lost, find a safe space and stay put – especially if you find a hut. Staying in one place makes it easier for you to be found, and provides you with shelter, that’s what they’re for – emergencies.
- If it’s safe to do so, make a smoky fire at your location, to draw visual attention from a great distance.
- Access to clean water is critical.
Some important information on huts
Many of the alpine huts are very old, and have important heritage value. They are often very beautiful, and a great place to camp next to, but not stay in, unless it’s an emergency.
In an emergency, the huts have many values, including a log book to add details of your group, and your direction of travel if you are moving on. Emergency services will often check huts first.
Learn more about the huts of the Australian Alps National Parks here: https://theaustralianalpsnationalparks.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/code-huts.pdf
Want to know more about bushwalking and other outdoor activities?
Visit NPA’s Bushwalking 101 website: https://www.bushwalking101.org/