The body of missing hiker Leslie Southwell has been found in the Mount Bogong area in Victoria’s Alps, police have confirmed.

Mr Southwell, 88, was hiking with friends when he became separated on Thursday while undertaking a 4.7-kilometre trek from Cleve Cole Memorial Hut to Michell Hut.

Leslie Southwell: found dead in the bush.

Wangaratta police area Acting Inspector Kevin Coughlan said emergency crews found Mr Southwell’s body just before 9:00am halfway between the huts.

“He was on the outside of a tent,” he said. “Until we have some sort of examination by the coroner we won’t know the actual cause of death.

“It would appear some kind of medical condition has impacted him whilst outside his tent.”

Authorities had been concerned for the hiker’s welfare due to his age and the weather conditions overnight, which dropped to below -5C.

About 30 specialist crew members were involved in the search which was suspended at dusk on Saturday.

Acting Inspector Coughlan said the terrain made searching difficult, with steep inclines and gullies where there was a risk of avalanches.

“It is unfortunate and it’s a timely reminder for everyone who goes in this extreme alpine conditions during winter that no matter how good you are, no matter how fit

Michell hut: the destination hiker Leslie Southwell, 88, never reached.

you are you can always get into trouble,” he said.

Mr Southwell had been described as “an extremely fit 88-year-old”.

He had a tent, backpack and three days’ worth of food with him when he was reported missing.

Police said his death was not being treated as suspicious and a report will be prepared for the coroner.