Finding into death of Yuhan Jin

Contributing factors

• Severe weather conditions with heavy snow, blizzard, poor visibility, temperatures -3.2 to 8.1°C
• Inexperience of hikers in alpine environment
• Inadequate preparation despite carrying appropriate equipment
• Failure to wear available protective clothing at critical time
• Lack of adequate shelter (carrying only lightweight tarp, no tent)
• Impaired judgment and disorientation due to hypothermia
• Exposed terrain at high altitude offering minimal shelter

Coroner's recommendations

1. Visitors planning to hike in Mount Bogong area should be aware weather conditions can be severe at any time of year
2. Planning and preparation are critical with practical and realistic assessments of abilities, capacities and limitations
3. Hikers should be prepared for snow, high winds and fog and carry suitable clothing including waterproof layer
4. Check weather forecast before leaving
5. Be aware of personal limitations as natural environment is unpredictable
6. Turn back if conditions are poor or deteriorating, particularly on exposed treeless terrain offering little shelter