Teen Deceased After Blue Mountains Search

A 16-year-old male was located deceased in a Blue Mountains creek on Thursday after becoming separated from a 17-year-old companion during a multi-day camping trip. Authorities launched a land and air search operation after a personal locator beacon was activated, leading to the rescue of the 17-year-old.

Trip Commencement

On Tuesday, a 16-year-old and a 17-year-old commenced a planned three-day camping trip in the Blue Mountains region of New South Wales. The two individuals traveled to Leura train station, located approximately 80 kilometers west of Sydney, and from there, proceeded on foot towards Mount Hay.

Separation and PLB Activation

The two individuals reportedly became separated during their trip.

• Source 1 reports that on Wednesday at approximately 5:45 PM, the 17-year-old activated a personal locator beacon (PLB) after he and his companion became separated.
• Source 2 states that the two individuals became separated just before 6 pm on Tuesday, at which point the older hiker activated his PLB.

Following the activation of the PLB, a land and air search operation was launched by authorities. The operation involved personnel from the Blue Mountains Rescue Squad, PolAir, NSW Ambulance paramedics, and the TOLL Rescue Helicopter.

Rescue and Recovery Efforts

The 17-year-old was subsequently located by search teams and winched to safety from the Acacia Flat campground. Search efforts continued for the 16-year-old.

On Thursday, around 1:00 PM, the body of the 16-year-old was located in a creek within the Blue Gum Forest area of the Blue Mountains National Park.

Ongoing Investigation

A post-mortem examination is scheduled to be conducted to determine the cause of death. A report will also be prepared for the coroner regarding the incident.