Police are this morning conducting a search for a missing skier in the Kosciuszko backcountry area of Watsons Crags.

On Monday morning the police issued a brief statement.

The 23-year-old man advised family members of his plans to ski the back country of Kosciuszko National Park around 10am on Saturday (3 September 2022).

When he failed to return or make further contact, officers from Monaro Police District commenced inquiries, subsequently locating the man’s vehicle at Guthega carpark later that day.

A coordinated search involving specialist police from the Alpine Operations Unit, State Emergency Service (SES), and National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), is now underway.

It’s believed the man was in possession of a Personal Locator Beacon, limited day supplies, and adequate equipment for backcountry conditions.

On the Australian Backcountry Facebook page there were people discussing the situation with one member saying they had sighted him early on Saturday morning where the skier indicated he was going to the Watsons Crags area.

On the same day another person had sighted a solo skier at approximately 10.30 to 11.00am in the area descending to the south.

The Watsons Crags area is a 3-4 hour traverse from Guthega Dam and is a popular spot for experienced skiers and snowboarders. The remote area offers steep chutes but does have exposed rocky areas.  

The Police will hold a media briefing at 11.30am this morning to advise of updates.