Police have located a missing experienced bushwalker safe and well after he was reported missing from the New England National Park at Darkwood.
What happened?
On Thursday 5 September 2019, a 43-year-old man and three friends flew to Coffs Harbour to undertake a hike from Thungutti Camp area, following the Bellinger River to the Cool Creek camp. The trip was supposed to take three days in total.
About 9.30am (Friday 6 September 2019), four bushwalkers set off on their journey, but the 43-year-old became separated from the group during this time.
When the man failed to return by Sunday morning (8 September 2019), officers from Coffs/Clarence Police District were notified and commenced inquiries into his whereabouts.
This morning (Monday 9 September 2019), a search commenced with police assisted by National Parks NSW.
About 12pm, whilst travelling along Horseshoe Road in the New England National Park, staff located a message on a sign believed to be from the missing man.
As crews were returning to the start of the walk, they located the experienced bushwalker safe and well.
What’s the message?
Police thanked the public and the media for their assistance and also reminded bushwalkers to plan their journeys ahead of time, ensure sufficient food, water and warm clothing are always taken, and to stay put and remain together when emergency services have been contacted in the case of an emergency.
Anyone entering the bush – even for a short walk – is reminded to think before you TREK.
T – Take adequate supplies of food, water, navigation and first aid equipment.
R – Register your planned route and tell friends and family when you expect to return.
E – Emergency beacons are available free of charge from police & National Parks & Wildlife Service.
K – Keep to your planned route and follow the map and walking trails.
Visit http://www.trek.nsw.gov.au for more information.
