Camper, 79, rescued after getting lost on NT walk
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September 15, 2021
The potential dangers of bushwalking in remote country have again been highlighted by the dramatic rescue of a 79-year-old man in the Northern Territory.
The man had been camping at Robin Falls near the township of Adelaide River when he became disoriented on a walk.
The NT News reports that he was unable to return to his campsite but found higher ground for the night and contacted police. The man provided detailed co-ordinates that placed him 2.2 kilometres from Robin Falls.
The man was eventually rescued by helicopter and taken to Royal Darwin Hospital for observation.
Acting Senior Sergeant Neil Mellon told the NT news that the rescue showed the importance of basic survival skills.
“This was a fantastic result that highlights the effectiveness of interagency collaboration and basic survival skills,” he said. “The victim has made the smart decision to seek high ground for phone reception, let police know his location, and to stay put until help could arrive.”
And Senior Sergeant Mellon had a word of warning for all bushwalkers.
“Circumstances can change quickly when hiking in the Territory,” he said. “It is vital that you plan ahead, take adequate food and water and always carry a fully charged phone.”
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3 Responses to Camper, 79, rescued after getting lost on NT walk
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Great result with excellent thinking.
Yes, great result but, You cannot always manage to get to “higher”ground. No excuse ever not to carry a PLB when in remote or distant places. Some never learn. Sensible folks know that their life is worth more than the $300 odd to invest in one. Let alone the cost of those involved in searching. The mind boggles !
Totally agree. We carry a Garmin Outreach which links with our mobile phone. Provides route planning with live updates AND unlimited satellite text messaging AND a HELP button.