A group of seven hikers aged 21 to 48 were rescued near Dead Horse Gap in Kosciuszko National Park after becoming disoriented due to a sudden weather change during a forecasted snowstorm. The hikers activated their Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) around 1:15 pm, prompting a multi-hour search operation by Police Search and Rescue, State Emergency Service Alpine Search and Rescue, and NSW Ambulance Alpine Operations. They were found around 7 pm, treated for cold exposure, and safely transported to Thredbo Village.

The hikers had taken important safety measures, including lodging a hiking plan, carrying appropriate supplies, and sheltering in place after activating the PLB. Authorities emphasized the critical role of the PLB in enabling a swift and precise rescue and reminded all hikers to check weather alerts, plan routes carefully, and carry a PLB, especially in alpine areas where sudden weather changes can pose serious risks. This incident is part of a broader pattern, with an average of two backcountry rescues per month in New South Wales during winter.