Two Chinese international students are lucky to be alive after surviving a terrifying night stranded on Victoria's highest peak, Mount Bogong, in freezing conditions that pushed them to the brink of hypothermia.
The harrowing ordeal began on Saturday when the 24-year-old man and 25-year-old woman, both studying in Australia, set out for what should have been a straightforward day hike up the 1,986-metre mountain in the Alpine National Park.
A Desperate Night in the Elements
As daylight faded and temperatures plummeted, the pair realised they had lost the track and were completely disoriented. With inadequate clothing and supplies for overnight conditions, they faced a life-threatening situation as the mercury dropped below freezing.
"They were completely unprepared for the conditions they faced overnight," revealed Acting Sergeant Dean Rotherham of Victoria Police. "They were very cold, very wet, and suffering from mild hypothermia when we found them."
Race Against Time
The alarm was raised when the students failed to return, triggering a major multi-agency rescue operation involving:
- Victoria Police Search and Rescue squad
- Local police units
- Specialist alpine search teams
- Air support resources
Rescuers battled challenging terrain and deteriorating weather conditions throughout Sunday morning before finally locating the exhausted pair near the summit area around 1:30 PM.
Miraculous Survival Against the Odds
Despite their ordeal, both students were found conscious and able to walk with assistance. They were immediately treated for exposure and hypothermia before being escorted down the mountain to safety.
"They were extremely fortunate to survive the night given their lack of preparation," emphasised Acting Sergeant Rotherham. "This serves as a stark reminder that mountains can be unpredictable and dangerous, even for day hikers."
Alpine Safety Warning Issued
The incident has prompted authorities to issue renewed warnings about alpine safety, particularly for international visitors who may underestimate Australia's mountain conditions. Police stressed that even summer conditions can turn deadly quickly in high-altitude environments.
Both students are now recovering and have been referred to medical services for further treatment following their brush with tragedy on Victoria's rooftop.
