Two hikers discover bodies in Victoria’s alpine country
Emergency services are responding after two hikers found the bodies of two women near Cleve Cole Hut in the Victorian high country on Friday afternoon. The remote site at Nelse is about 400km north-east of Melbourne, where authorities have mobilised a coordinated response to the scene and the recovery operation.
Police were alerted just after 12.50pm when passers-by reported locating the bodies near the popular hiking and camping area. Uniform officers, together with the search and rescue squad and the air wing, made their way into the isolated terrain to assist with the investigation and recovery efforts.
Where and when the bodies were found
The discovery occurred close to Cleve Cole Hut, a well-known landmark in Victoria’s high-country, amid rugged alpine surroundings. The region, characterized by steep inclines and rapidly changing weather, is part of the Mount Bogong area, which can pose serious challenges for anyone venturing into backcountry terrain.
What police say about the deaths
At this stage, police say the deaths are not considered suspicious. The two women are believed to be in their 20s or 30s, but their identities have not yet been confirmed, and there are no current missing-person reports as of the early investigations. Investigators are appealing to the public to contact police if they can provide information to help identify the women and clarify why they were in the area.
Response and recovery operations
Given the isolated location, authorities camped at the scene overnight on Friday as search-and-rescue teams prepared to recover the bodies. Rescue efforts were focused on careful navigation of the rugged terrain and ensuring the safety of personnel working in challenging weather and altitude. Police said they expect to provide an update on the recovery and the ongoing investigation on Saturday afternoon.
Context: outdoor safety in Victoria’s high country
The Victorian high country attracts hikers and campers year-round, but conditions can change quickly and become treacherous. The incident underscores the importance of thorough planning, proper gear, and clear communication for anyone heading into remote alpine areas. Authorities remind walkers to file a trip plan, carry reliable means of communication, and be prepared for unexpected weather events, including sudden temperature drops, fog, and storms that can impede navigation and rescue operations.
Related developments in the region
Separately, Tasmanian police conducted a major extraction operation on the Franklin River after a rafting incident left 11 people stranded in the wilderness. A 49-year-old woman from southern Tasmania died when her raft flipped; the remaining group, including her partner, were rescued with injuries not described as life-threatening. Investigations continue, with authorities indicating the group had experience in the outdoors and hailed from Tasmania and other states.
Authorities emphasise that the Victorian incident appears unrelated to the Tasmanian event, while both episodes highlight the risks associated with remote outdoor adventures. Updates will be provided by Victoria Police as the investigations progress.
