Bushwalkers put on notice after two ‘disorientated’ men were rescued near Federation Peak in Tasmania
December 24, 2024
Bushwalkers have been put on notice after Tasmanian authorities had to rescue two people in the early hours of the morning.
A lengthy search operation unfolded near Federation Peak, a popular hiking spot in the state’s south-west, after two males aged in their 20s became lost on Monday night.
A Tasmania Police statement said the duo “activated their personal locator beacon about 8pm after they found themselves disoriented and without their equipment that had been left at their campsite”.
Police search and rescue crews were tasked with finding the two men, with the assistance of the Westpac Police Rescue Helicopter.
Two bushwalkers were rescued near Federation Peak in Tasmania early on Tuesday morning. Picture: Philip Young
However, search efforts were initially hampered by poor weather conditions, which resulted in a delay to the helicopter’s deployment to the area.
It was not until about 5.40am on Tuesday that the two men were found. No injuries were reported.
The rescue operation has promoted authorities to remind bushwalkers to be prepared when setting out to explore Tasmania.
“The weather in Tasmania can change rapidly and dramatically, so it is important that all walkers prepare for the worst,” Search Controller, Senior Constable Cam Rennie, said.
“Many of the locations where people require assistance are remote, and it takes time for police and rescue crews to arrive and then navigate potentially challenging conditions.
“While crews will always respond when called, you can keep yourself safe by carrying the right equipment.”
Bushwalkers have also been urged to thoroughly research their trip, including the difficulty level of the intended route, inform others of the planned journey and carry communication devices, including a personal locator beacon.
While a fully charged mobile phone should also be taken, bushwalkers should not rely on it as “the sole means of communication and navigation during a bushwalking trip”, Senior Constable Cam Rennie added.
In October, a tourist was rescued after being left “unable to walk” following a failed attempt to climb Cradle Mountain in Tasmania barefoot.
