Hikers, including eight teenagers, rescued from Morton National Park

A 14-year-old girl was treated for hypothermia after a group of hikers were stranded overnight in Morton National Park by heavy rain and fog.

Teen hikers were among a group of 11 rescued after spending a cold and uncomfortable night in the bush, trapped by heavy rain, thick fog, and treacherous conditions.

Emergency services launched a multi-agency operation after an emergency beacon was activated about 9.40am last Wednesday at Flying Fox Gully, about 28km north-west of Ulladulla.

South Coast Police District officers coordinated the rescue effort, supported by NSW Ambulance, State Emergency Services, and specialist Police Rescue units.

“Because of inclement weather a decision was made for the party to camp overnight due to them having sufficient supplies and equipment,” police said in a statement.

Eleven hikers, including eight teenagers, have been rescued after becoming stranded overnight in Morton National Park due to severe weather. Photo: NSW Police

The group consisted of three adults, a 27-year-old woman and two men aged 32 and 43, and eight teenagers, three girls and five boys aged between 14 and 17.

“A command post was established at Yadboro Flat campground that involved Police Rescue, general duty officers, NSW Ambulance and State Emergency Services,” police said.

From 9.30am on Thursday, crews from PolAir and NSW Ambulance began winching the hikers to safety, with the operation concluding by 12.30pm.

Eleven hikers, including eight teenagers, have been rescued after becoming stranded overnight in Morton National Park due to severe weather. Photo: NSW Police

The group was flown to Yadboro Flat campground and the Milton helicopter pad.

A NSW Ambulance paramedic was also flown to the campsite on Wednesday to treat a 14-year-old girl suffering from mild hypothermia, but she did not require hospitalisation.

Police said the hikers were part of an organised trek that became disoriented due to the poor weather conditions.

“They had sufficient provisions and equipment but could not self-extract,” police said.

Morton National Park, where the group became stranded, is a rugged wilderness area known for its steep gullies, dense bushland, and limited phone reception.

Originally published as Hikers, including eight teenagers, rescued from Morton National Park