'Nature doesn't follow your plans': Solo walker recounts rescue from Overland Track
An experienced Tasmanian hiker has recounted her experience of misadventure — not knowing if her emergency locator beacon was still working after plunging into icy water.
Tasmanian hiker Fiona Weaver recounted her harrowing rescue by helicopter from the Overland Track, where she fell into an icy river after a heavy downpour disrupted her solo hike. Experienced in the outdoors, Weaver had prepared extensively for the four-day trek, carrying emergency supplies and a locator beacon. Despite meticulous planning, she fell off a wooden crossing into 45 centimeters of icy water and became separated from her pack.
She managed to find her pack after 10 minutes and returned to New Pelion Hut, where she activated her emergency beacon, though she was unsure if the message had been received. About 12 hours later, she heard the sound of the Westpac Rescue Helicopter, providing her safe passage home. Weaver emphasized that while proper preparation is crucial, nature can still present unexpected challenges.
She urged hikers to remain cautious and flexible, reminding them that assistance could take time to arrive due to weather conditions or location. Her experience highlighted the importance of being well-equipped, but also stressed the unpredictability of the wilderness.
Written by urgent.news from ABC News AU's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
