Couple get lost on mountain while searching for 'disappearing' Instagram spot
A couple went missing on a picturesque bush walk in Tasmania while trying to find a "disappearing" Instagram location.
At about 5.50pm on Wednesday, emergency services were called after two people walking from The Springs to the Disappearing Tarn on Mount Wellington required assistance.
Tasmania Police said in a statement the man and woman had become lost on their walk and it was starting to get dark, their phones were losing charge and they were not prepared for a cold night in the wilderness.
According to the ABC, Senior Constable Herbert said the couple was wearing light all-day walking attire and they didn't have enough food or water.
He also said the pair probably wouldn't have been able to find the Disappearing Tarn, as the picturesque location usually goes unnoticed if empty.
"It hasn't been raining heavily enough so I think although they went to the Disappearing Tarn, it appears to have disappeared for now," Snr Con Herbert said.
Tas Trails promises "breathtaking turquoise waters, beautifully juxtaposed in colour to the surrounding landscape" if the tarn is full.
Snr Con Herbert said the police encourage people to be active, but there are some precautions people can take.
"We're quite happy to do our jobs and go and rescue people, but there are some precautions that could have been taken that may be able to avoid what happened last night," he told the ABC.
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The couple who got lost on Wednesday were found by Search and Rescue teams at around 9pm and they were walked to safety.
In the statement released by police, Snr Con Herbert reminded people September can still bring sub zero temperatures, even if it is warmer in the day. At the time the hikers were found, it was just 5 degrees.
He said people going for a bush walk should be prepared for all conditions.
“When walking in elevated areas the temperature can change quickly," he said.
"The day may be warm and fine when commencing a walk but change rapidly as weather patterns move through and light reduces.”
The police reminded people mobile phone batteries will not last as long in the cold and navigation apps drain batteries faster than other apps.
Police advised adventurers to have a physical map on hand, instead of solely relying on their mobile phone for navigation, and to also carry a battery bank to charge phones and torches.
“Some rescue missions could have been prevented if people had been better prepared," he said.
"Being well prepared makes for an enjoyable time walking and in the unlikely event you require assistance – the equipment will keep you warm while waiting for help and assist searchers in locating you.
“Police want everyone to enjoy Tasmania’s wilderness safely.”
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