Source: ACT Police
Police, emergency services, and ACT Parks and Conservation Service are urging Canberrans to be prepared when setting out in national parks and surrounding bushland during the colder months.
The warning follows three rescues in July from national parks around the ACT requiring the deployment of resources from ACT Policing, AFP Search and Rescue, ACT Ambulance Service, and New South Wales Police.
On 1 July 2024, a 74-year-old man was recovered after he set out on a hike to Mt Tennant in Namadgi National Park but called for assistance after it became dark and he could not find his way along the trail.
The man was found by members of AFP Search and Rescue team and ACT Ambulance Service Remote Access Paramedics about 9pm and was escorted back to his vehicle.
On 14 July 2024, police began a search for two lost dirt bikers in Brindabella National Park after they became stranded on a track. They were able to find phone coverage to call for help and gave police a ‘what3words’ location to assist in their recovery.
The men were found about 9pm by officers from ACT Policing and NSWPF uninjured but cold and fatigued.
About 7pm on Sunday, 28 July 2024, police rural patrol observed a two-wheel drive sedan that had become bogged in snow after coming across a felled tree blocking a trail. A 21-year-old man in the vehicle advised his 22-year-old friend had left on foot to flag down assistance from members of the public.
While police helped clear the tree, the 22-year-old returned to the scene, and police recovered the sedan with the help of another driver.
Senior Constable Angus Fergusson from ACT Policing’s Rural Patrol is reminding the community to think ahead when undertaking recreational activities this winter.
“This most recent incident is particularly concerning, as these young men weren’t dressed appropriately for the conditions, had no warm clothing, food, or equipment with them in case of a situation like the one they found themselves in,” Senior Constable Fergusson said.
“Following these incidents, it’s a timely reminder for anyone planning to head out bush to plan ahead and be prepared.
“The days are shorter so if you are going out, make sure you have plenty of daylight for your return trip. There’s nothing wrong with turning back early and trying again another day.
“We would also urge people to notify someone else in advance of their intended route and expected return time. Mobile phone service can be unreliable, and in the event you are unable to contact emergency services, it is crucial someone else knows where you were heading.”
Anyone intending to head out when cold conditions are forecast are reminded to:
For more safety advice, visit the ACT Parks website.