Preparing for the Worst Case Scenario Proves Beneficial
In a dramatic turn of events, Vanessa Bridge and Andy Reid, two seasoned trampers, were rescued from the rugged Dusky Track in Fiordland, New Zealand, after activating their Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) on Thursday morning.
The couple had embarked on an eight-day expedition on the Dusky Track, a challenging but rewarding remote track between Lake Hauroko and Lake Manapouri, known for its pristine wilderness and demanding terrain. Three days into their journey, Vanessa suffered a broken ankle, forcing them to rethink their plans.
Despite the setback, the pair pressed on, using their decades of outdoor experience to navigate the difficult terrain. They decided to take a small tent as emergency shelter after reading an alert on the DOC website. With their heavy packs weighing around 20kg, they carried enough emergency shelter, food, and supplies to survive for multiple days in the wilderness.
Vanessa managed her pain levels with medication overnight, and the couple activated their PLB before 7am the next day. An hour later, they heard the sound of a helicopter approaching. The Southern Lakes Helicopter crew and Maritime NZ’s Rescue Coordination Centre were praised for their efficient, life-saving effort in the rescue.
Despite the incident, Andy and Vanessa remain hopeful about completing the Dusky Track within the year once Vanessa recovers. They express gratitude for the extra food they carried, in case the PLB didn't work, and for the rescue teams who came to their aid.
This harrowing tale serves as a reminder of the importance of being well-equipped and prepared for any eventuality when venturing into the great outdoors. We encourage our readers to share their own outdoor stories using #ShareYourStoryNZ and #MakeItHomeNZ online, or by emailing [email protected]. Let's continue to explore and appreciate the beauty of New Zealand's wilderness, always remembering to do so safely and responsibly.
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