Joshua Dart will always remember the moment he and his hiking group found Hadi Nazari, a missing bushwalker, alive in Kosciuszko National Park. While enjoying the breathtaking views on the first day of their hike, the group heard cries for help. Dart recalled, “When we realised it was him, I couldn’t believe it. We were emotional, crying, and he was in tears.”
Nazari, who had been missing in the NSW Snowy Mountains since Boxing Day, was discovered in the afternoon after an extensive, two-week search. Although Dart’s group wasn’t actively searching, they stumbled upon him at approximately 3:15 PM, near Blue Lake. Nazari had survived by foraging berries, drinking creek water, and consuming two muesli bars he found in a nearby hut.
“He was scratched up and sunburnt, but he was in good spirits, saying, ‘praise God,’” Dart stated. Nazari explained he lost his way and became separated from his friends on Boxing Day, unaware of how long he had been missing. According to Dart, “He was saying seven days. He’d lost track of time, but he had good survival instincts.”
Upon making contact with the hikers, Nazari borrowed a phone to call his mother. His friend, Maisum Jafari, expressed relief that Nazari was found and reunited with his family, saying they held onto “high hopes” throughout the ordeal. After being located, Nazari was winched to the search command post by helicopter shortly after 3:15 PM and was assessed by paramedics, later being celebrated for his survival among the campers.
NSW Police Superintendent Andrew Spliet reaffirmed the importance of maintaining hope during search operations as they expressed gratitude for Nazari’s safe return. “The family can rest easy,” he said.
For the hikers, the experience was unforgettable. Dart reflected, “It’s just a miracle, and I’m so grateful for him to get out. He really kind of rescued himself; we just happened to be at the right place.”
This incredible tale not only highlights the significance of outdoor safety but also the power of hope and community in challenging situations. As we celebrate the successful outcome, Nazari’s story serves as a reminder to take precautions while enjoying nature.
Summary: Joshua Dart and his hiking group found missing bushwalker Hadi Nazari alive in Kosciuszko National Park after he had been missing for over a week. Nazari survived by foraging and drinking creek water, and he was in good spirits upon being discovered. His safe return was celebrated by rescuers and loved ones, highlighting the importance of hope and community support during search efforts.
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