Convicted killer on the run in Cooma

A manhunt is underway after a prisoner convicted of murder fled from Snowy Oval in Cooma in the state's south.

Police have launched a major search for 34-year-old Adam Bowhay, who is serving a 23 year sentence for a murder committed in 1997.

Bowhay absconded just after one o'clock this afternoon, while on a work release program with two other inmates.

Officers are urging anyone who spots Bowhay not to approach him, but to call Triple-0 immediately.

He's described as Caucasian, about 184cm tall, with medium to large build, a bald head and is clean shaven.

He has tattoos around his neck, upper arm and legs.

He was last seen wearing a fluorescent yellow work shirt and blue and green ‘King Gee’ pants.