Bushwalkers missing for three days in Blue Mountains found

Alfred Zawadzki, 69, and Klaus Umland, 81, were due to return from a two-day hike in the Megalong Valley on Friday.

Two bushwalkers who have been missing in the NSW Blue Mountains since Friday have been located.

Alfred Zawadzki, 69, and Klaus Umland, 81, were due to return from a two-day hike in the Megalong Valley on Friday.

When Mr Zawadzki didn’t turn up for an appointment on Sunday, they were reported missing.

About 1am, the rescue party located the men near Mobbs Swamp.

They are reported to be in good health and are being escorted out of bushland, expected to return to Dunphy’s campground about 6.45am.

Neither man have suffered any injuries, however, will be assessed by paramedics.

Overnight, police received contact from the men via a mobile phone and a targeted search is now underway.

Klaus Umland, 81, and Alfred Zawadzki, 69, have been found. Picture: NSW Police

Police located Mr Umland’s car in the car park of Dunphy’s campground on Sunday, confirming suspicions that they had never returned from the bushwalk.

Both men are regular and experienced bushwalkers and this walk did not seem outside of their capabilities.

A co-ordinated multi-agency search party involving police officers, rescue squad, Polair, RFS and SES Bush Search and Rescue is in it’s second day.

Blue Mountains Police Area Command Detective Inspector Michael Marinello said it is a timely reminder for bushwalkers to have an appropriate communication plan.

“No matter how experienced a bushwalker may be, it is imperative that they have with them all the relevant safety equipment including suitable clothing, food and water,” he said.

The two bushwalkers have been found. Picture: Facebook

“Another important aspect are communication devices. Whenever heading on a bushwalk, people should have a fully-charged mobile phone, along with additional charging devices. Taking a GPS enabled Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) will help rescuers should you find yourself in difficulty.

“It is also important to let someone know your intended route, what tracks you are taking and your estimated return time. If there is any change to the original plan, then tell someone,” Inspector Marinello said.

“Please ensure you register your trip with the appropriate agency, such as the National Parks and Wildlife Service, and think before you trek – know what the weather conditions will be like, know your physical abilities and make your bushwalk a safe one,” Inspector Marinello said.