'Body of Missing Hiker Discovered on Mount Beerwah in Queensland

Authorities have confirmed the discovery of a missing hiker's body on Mount Beerwah, highlighting the dangers of steep terrain and the importance of safety measures while hiking.

P24 News Media

December 13, 2024

1 minute

'Body of Missing Hiker Discovered on Mount Beerwah in Queensland

India

The north-west face of Mount Beerwah has been the site of a tragic incident as emergency services retrieved the body of a missing hiker. This unfortunate event unfolded over the weekend within the picturesque Glass House Mountains, where a 20-year-old man from Mountain Creek had last been spotted.

On Sunday afternoon, around 1 PM, the young man embarked on a climbing expedition to Mount Beerwah. After failing to return, a search operation was initiated, involving police, Queensland Fire and Rescue Service, the State Emergency Service, and numerous volunteers from the community. Despite the extensive efforts, it was not until Thursday afternoon that authorities located his body on the mountain's north-west face.

According to police, the circumstances surrounding the man's death suggest that he may have experienced a fall during his climb. Senior Sergeant Michael Froggatt indicated that the case is being treated as a misadventure, implying that there was no foul play involved in the incident. "It seems he slipped and fell from a cliff edge," Froggatt remarked.

The body was discovered approximately three-quarters of the way up the mountain, nearing the summit. However, authorities were unable to ascertain how long the hiker had been deceased before being located. The ongoing investigation by the coroner will eventually provide more details about the timeline and circumstances of this tragic event.

Following the discovery, the hiking trails on Mount Beerwah have been reopened to the public, as confirmed by the Environment Department. These trails had been closed since December 2 due to adverse weather conditions, which could have contributed to the challenges faced by hikers.

This incident marks the second fatality at Mount Beerwah within the last two years. In March 2023, a 28-year-old woman from Currimundi lost her life in a similar climbing accident. This pattern has raised alarms about the safety of the mountain’s trails.

In light of these incidents, Senior Sergeant Froggatt has issued vital advice for future climbers. He emphasizes the importance of being aware of weather conditions, hiking with companions, and notifying someone about your climbing plans. Additionally, having the right gear, sufficient food and water, and appropriate clothing is crucial for a safe hiking experience.

This tragic event serves as a sobering reminder of the risks associated with outdoor adventures. It underscores the need for vigilance and preparedness in nature to ensure safety while exploring the beautiful trails of Queensland.