Australia’s hiking community falls silent in grief over the tragic loss of Andrew Cooper, a 39-year-old bushwalker from New South Wales whose passion for wilderness trails inspired fellow adventurers across the nation.
On November 24, 2025, Andrew’s body was discovered near Federation Peak in Tasmania’s remote Southwest National Park by another hiker, after he failed to return from a solo trek as planned. Tasmania Police confirmed the recovery of his remains by helicopter that afternoon, with no suspicious circumstances noted, and a report prepared for the coroner.
Andrew hailed from the coastal expanses of New South Wales, where early explorations of national parks like the Blue Mountains ignited his lifelong affinity for rugged terrains and solitary journeys.
As an experienced solo hiker, he embraced the solitude of backcountry paths, navigating Australia’s diverse landscapes with a respect for nature’s unforgiving beauty. His choice of Federation Peak, a grade-five traverse renowned for its steep scrambles and sheer drops, underscored his seasoned commitment to challenging himself amid Tasmania’s ancient wilderness.
Federation Peak stands as one of Australia’s most formidable hikes, a quartzite spire rising 1,224 meters in the Eastern Arthur Range, demanding technical ascents and endurance over multi-day routes.
The Direct Ascent route, often unroped, exposes climbers to 600-meter plunges into Lake Geeves, contributing to at least six fatalities in the area over the past decade alone. Andrew’s solo endeavor highlighted the peak’s allure for intrepid souls, though its isolation amplifies risks in unpredictable weather and remote access.
In his professional life, Andrew balanced his outdoor pursuits with a grounded career in New South Wales, though details remain private to those closest to him, reflecting a man who prioritized experiences over accolades.
He contributed to local hiking forums and gear discussions, sharing practical insights from his treks that aided novice adventurers. His lifestyle wove seamlessly between urban routines and trail escapes, embodying a harmonious respect for both.
Family and friends formed the steadfast base of Andrew’s world, where his adventures often stemmed from a desire to recharge and return with stories that strengthened bonds during gatherings. He left behind loved ones who cherished his thoughtful presence and the way he encouraged others to step beyond comfort zones.
Andrew reveled in the meditative rhythm of hiking, from dawn starts laden with packs to summit views that rewarded days of effort, finding profound joy in Australia’s untamed vistas. His gear choices—lightweight tents, reliable navigation tools—spoke to a philosophy of self-reliance honed over years of exploration. These passions revealed a soul attuned to the wild’s whispers, forever drawn to the next horizon.
Though Andrew Cooper’s final trail has ended, his legacy of bold exploration urges Australia’s outdoor enthusiasts to hike mindfully and celebrate nature’s gifts with reverence. Tasmania’s parks service continues to emphasize preparation for such demanding routes, while tributes from the hiking fraternity echo his enduring spirit. Memorial details are forthcoming through New South Wales services, inviting adventurers to raise a toast to the man who lived for the path less traveled.