Ocean Signal PLB Australia Canyon Rescue

What happened?

Ben and I were exploring one of southeast Queensland’s most beautiful canyons. The day was progressing as planned, despite an equipment failure while we were on rope. We were trained and prepared for the situation, so we resolved the issue and continued safely.

After completing the canyon, we began the difficult walk out. I slipped and injured my hand, but we continued along our planned exit route. Believing I had dislocated my thumb, I attempted to treat it in the field. I later discovered that it was broken.

As we continued towards the exit, we became lost after several unsuccessful attempts to find the correct route. Although we followed a GPS track on my watch, the terrain eventually became impassable. We returned to the creek to look for our secondary exit.

By midnight, we were exhausted and unable to continue. While setting up camp beside the creek, we heard a helicopter searching the valley and calling our names over a loudspeaker. My wife had followed our emergency plan and raised the alarm after we missed our scheduled check-in time.

We activated our Ocean Signal Personal Locator Beacon, enabling the rescue team to establish our location. They instructed us to remain where we were, which we did for nearly two days.

Eventually, we saw the Rescue500 helicopter arrive to winch us from the canyon and return us safely to civilization. I hope I never require their assistance again, but I remain extremely grateful for the rescue team’s professionalism and support.

Words of wisdom

When its time to pop the beacon be decisive, accept the process and do what you can with what you have to  make the best of your situation until help arrives.

Thank you note to the Ocean Signal team

Thanks for building the products that gives those of us who love to get into the wild places a lifeline in times of need. your work is worthy of praise.