The recent news surrounding Mount Kosciuszko has been dominated by the ongoing search for Hadi Nazari, a missing hiker in Kosciuszko National Park. Over 300 search and rescue personnel have been deployed in efforts that have now extended into their third week. The challenging terrain and unpredictable weather conditions have complicated the search, drawing significant media attention and public concern.
Mount Kosciuszko, standing at 2,228 metres (7,310 ft), is the highest peak on mainland Australia, located in the Snowy Mountains of New South Wales. It is part of the Australian Alps and is renowned for its stunning alpine scenery and diverse ecosystems. The mountain is named after Polish-Lithuanian hero Tadeusz Kościuszko and is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. The area is also significant for its Indigenous heritage, with the Ngarigo people referring to it as Kunama Namadgi. Kosciuszko National Park is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, highlighting its ecological importance.