Melbourne, Australia — A remarkable tale of survival has emerged from Australia’s Kosciuszko National Park, where 23-year-old medical student Hadi Nazari endured two weeks lost in the rugged Snowy Mountains. Relying on just two muesli bars, foraged berries, and creek water, Nazari survived against the odds before being rescued on Wednesday.
Nazari, an experienced hiker from Melbourne, became separated from his two hiking companions on December 26 while taking photos in the park. His disappearance triggered a massive search operation involving more than 300 land and air rescuers, scouring the steep and densely wooded terrain for any sign of him.
On Wednesday, Nazari approached a group of hikers, informing them that he was lost and in need of water. Police said he had trekked over six miles from the location where he was last seen. Despite the ordeal, he was found in “remarkable condition,” needing treatment only for dehydration.
Nazari’s survival depended on his ability to navigate the challenging environment. He told police he had been walking from dawn to dusk, searching for water sources and foraging for food. “There are some creeks up there, and he said he’s been finding water where he could and foraging for food in terms of berries,” said Police Inspector Josh Broadfoot.
At one point during his journey, Nazari found a hut containing two muesli bars, which provided a brief but much-needed energy boost. His resourcefulness and determination allowed him to endure the physically and mentally taxing conditions of the wilderness for 14 days.
Broadfoot praised Nazari’s resilience. “For him to come out and be in such good spirits and in such great condition, it’s incredible,” he said. “Fourteen days with very little food is an incredible feat.”
Searchers were optimistic about finding Nazari alive, given his experience and the gear he carried, including a tent. Evidence such as a campfire, camera, and hiking poles discovered during the search suggested he was still moving and making efforts to survive. This evidence kept the search team’s hopes alive.
The rescue operation involved helicopters, ground teams, and volunteers covering vast stretches of difficult terrain. Their persistence paid off when Nazari reappeared and was promptly reunited with his two hiking companions before being flown to a hospital for assessment.
The mild summer weather in the Southern Hemisphere played a key role in Nazari’s survival. While the terrain of Mount Kosciuszko—Australia’s highest peak at 7,310 feet above sea level—is challenging, it lacks the extreme conditions of other alpine regions. Accessible water sources and Nazari’s hiking expertise were crucial in ensuring his survival.
Ambulance Inspector Adam Mower was amazed at Nazari’s condition after such a prolonged ordeal. “He’s in remarkable condition for a person who’s been missing for so long,” Mower said.
Nazari’s incredible journey is a testament to human resilience and the importance of preparation when exploring the wilderness. His ability to stay hydrated, forage for food, and keep moving undoubtedly contributed to his survival.
For the rescuers, the outcome was a welcome success after two weeks of intense searching. “It’s not every day that you see such a positive result in situations like this,” Broadfoot remarked.
Nazari’s experience serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of nature and the vital role of search and rescue operations in saving lives. His story will surely be remembered as one of perseverance and survival against the odds.
