How a PLB1 Personal Locator Beacon Saved My Life During a Remote Fishing Trip

1 lives saved

Fishing

Medical emergency

Normal conditions

River

What happened?

At 6:30 in the morning, my friend Armand and I set off for a day’s fishing at Broken River — a two-hour drive away. On arrival, the temperature was -1°C. We changed into our waders, gathered our fishing gear and fly rods, and began the couple of kilometers’ walk to the river.

When we reached the railway viaduct, Armand left briefly to find a better way down to the river. About five minutes after he left, I began to feel faint. I found a step to sit on and rest, but the faintness only worsened. Soon I was lying on my back, realizing something was seriously wrong. I struggled to raise the aerial on my PLB1 (Personal Locator Beacon) and managed to activate it.

It was a frightening experience. At 80 years old, well dressed but clearly not well enough for the freezing conditions, the cold was taking its toll. I later learned from my doctor that I’d suffered a vasovagal syncope attack — a sudden fainting episode often triggered by stress or other factors, made worse in my case by the cold and anxiety.

It was the first time in my life that I truly felt anxious about my survival. I was alone, out for the first time with a new fishing companion, unsure how he would react or when he’d return. I was cold, disoriented, and struggling to operate the PLB1, unsure if help would come in time.

About 45 minutes after I activated the beacon, I heard the tremendous relief of the helicopter approaching. Before it arrived, Armand returned and helped me into a nearby hut to get warm. The medics were excellent — they ran some checks, made sure I was stable, and flew me back to Christchurch Hospital. I was discharged later that day.

Looking back, I had faith in the PLB1 but hearing that helicopter coming was a moment I’ll never forget. It was a reassuring reminder of how vital preparation and reliable gear are — especially in remote, cold conditions. I’m grateful for the outcome, for Armand’s help, and for the swift response of the rescue team.

Words of wisdom

CARRY PLB1 ON YOU, NOT IN A BAG OR PACKED IN CASE YOU LOOSE IT IN CASE OF AN ACCIDENT. IT SHOULD BE ATTACHED TO YOU.

Thank you note to the Ocean Signal team

RESCUE TEAM WERE VERY PROFESSIONAL AND CARRIED OUT THEIR DUTIES IN A PLEASANT MANNER AND A VERY NICE MANNER.

APPRECIATE THE PLB1 UNIT FOR THE RESCUE TO LOCATE ME ON TIME.