A 69-year-old bushwalker was found to be suffering with mild hypothermia and with a small abrasion on his face when he was rescued overnight in the Highlands.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
Emergency services were called to Stevos Track at Carrington Falls at about 6.15pm on July 1, after reports of a man being lost while bushwalking.
A command post was established and officers attached to Hume Police District responded.
He was located in dense bushland at about 10pm by the Illawarra Police Rescue and the National Parks and Wildlife Service, and was then offered food and water.
Hume Police District Chief Inspector Brendan Bernie said it was a reminder for bushwalkers to be prepared for any conditions when going on a hike.
"No matter how experienced a bushwalker you are, it's really important you are equipped with safety equipment, wearing suitable clothing and carrying food and water," he said.
"Conditions can change quickly and in this case the temperature dropped to around four degrees and was raining, proving challenging for all those involved."
Walkers were also encouraged to have a GPS with a Personal Locator Beacon to alert authorities if they got into trouble, the chief inspector said.
"It's also a great idea to fill out a trip intention form with the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, so authorities know where to intend to travel and your return time, in the event don't return safely and authorities can be notified," he said.
They arrived back to the original command post at about 1.40am on July 2, and he was treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance.
Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.