As I neared the bottom of the descent, I caught my foot in a tree root and crashed down. My right ankle gave out when I tried to stand, so I sat with my fellow travelers to recover.
Lives saved
1
Hiking
Mountain
Medical emergency
Challenging Terrain
Hiker Rescued atop Ironbound Range after Unexpected Terrain Leads to Ankle Injury
-43.4624293°S, 146.1859381°E
Posted on November 1, 2023 by Mark
What happened?
We were on a 7-day walk in the beautiful South West of Tasmania, enjoying everything it offered and facing the challenges it presented.
On Day 3 we tackled the Ironbound Range and whilst going up 900 meters from sea level was a challenge, coming back down the other side was significantly harder. The track had turned into a mud slide along with gnarly tree roots, rocks and thick scrub to negotiate.
After a while, I could stand and hobble with my walking poles, while my companions carried my pack. We then spent the next 4 to 5 hours hobbling to the nearest camp which was only 3km away. I’m grateful to Wendy and Charlie for guiding me. Tim and Ol for carrying the packs, and Kiera and new friends for setting up camp and having hot food ready.
I went to bed, thinking all I needed was a good night’s sleep, and we’d be on our way.
Next morning when I got out of the tent I found that I could barely walk and it was at that point we set off my ACR ResQLink PLB.
An hour later, the Westpac Helicopter arrived with the search and rescue team. They assessed me and then we decided to hobble to the helicopter for a trip to the hospital.
The medical team confirmed I had broken my ankle and torn my Achilles tendon.
I have nothing but high praise for the search and rescue team who came to my aid. The medical teams and my walking companions who supported me in my recovery.
My heartfelt thanks to all!!!
Words of wisdom
Always travel in a group and take the time to be prepared to encounter all conditions.
Thank you note
I am very thankful for the product you have developed. I was 4 days away from civilisation and as I had broken my ankle and tore my achilles tendon it would’ve been impossible to get out under my own steam
Rescue location
S Coast Track, Southwest TAS 7116, Australia
Rescue team
Westpac Rescue Helicopter
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