A group of hikers, among them eight teenagers, recently had a harrowing experience in Morton National Park. Imagine being surrounded by heavy rain and thick fog, trapped in the bush with treacherous conditions looming around you. It was a true test of resilience and survival for these brave individuals.
The ordeal began when an emergency beacon was activated at Flying Fox Gully, approximately 28km north-west of Ulladulla. This distress signal set off a chain of events that led to a daring rescue mission involving various emergency services. The South Coast Police District officers took charge, supported by NSW Ambulance, State Emergency Services, and specialized Police Rescue units.
“Because of inclement weather a decision was made for the party to camp overnight due to them having sufficient supplies and equipment,”
explained the police in a statement. With no other choice but to wait out the harsh conditions, the group found themselves spending an uncomfortable night in the bush.
Among the stranded hikers were three adults—a 27-year-old woman and two men aged 32 and 43—alongside eight teenagers comprising three girls and five boys aged between 14 and 17 years old. As dawn broke over Morton National Park, efforts to rescue the group swung into action.
A command post was set up at Yadboro Flat campground where various agencies pooled their resources for a coordinated effort.
“From 9.30am on Thursday, crews from PolAir and NSW Ambulance began winching the hikers to safety,”
marking the beginning of a challenging yet successful extraction operation that concluded by midday.
The relief felt as each hiker was safely airlifted from their precarious situation was palpable. The rescuers swiftly transported them to Yadboro Flat campground and later to Milton helicopter pad for further assistance if needed. Remarkably, despite enduring such trying circumstances throughout the night, only one member—a 14-year-old girl—required medical attention for mild hypothermia but thankfully did not need hospitalization.
The group had embarked on what seemed like an ordinary trek through Morton National Park but soon found themselves disoriented by Mother Nature’s fury. This rugged wilderness area is infamous for its steep gullies, dense bushland, and limited phone reception—a combination that can easily lead even experienced hikers astray.
In times like these when unexpected challenges arise during outdoor adventures, it’s crucial to stay calm and rely on your training or instincts until help arrives. The courage displayed by these teenage hikers serves as a reminder of how unpredictable nature can be but also how resilient we can become in face of adversity.
As they reflect on their night of survival in Morton National Park, these hikers will undoubtedly have tales to share for years to come—a testament to their strength and determination amidst nature’s unforgiving elements.
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