A 30-year-old hiker was saved after suffering a head injury while navigating the steep trails of Myburgh’s Waterfall Ravine on Saturday morning, reports Cape {town} Etc.
The incident unfolded as a large group of 50 hikers embarked on a popular route from the Suikerbossie Restaurant & Estate, aiming to return via Llandudno Ravine.
The peaceful outing took a perilous turn when a dislodged rock struck the hiker on the head as the group ascended the steep ravine. Upon realising the severity of her injury, a fellow hiker promptly dialled the emergency contact number 021 937 0300 to summon help.
Responding to the emergency, over twenty-five volunteers and professionals from Wilderness Search And Rescue (WSAR) Western Cape descended on Hout Bay to aid in the effort.
While the team organised near the designated landing zone for the Western Cape Government Health and Wellness EMS/Air Mercy Service (AMS) rescue helicopter, a small contingent of specialist trail runners was dispatched to reach the injured hiker and verify her location.
However, nature had other plans; strong winds, gusting at over 60 knots, rendered the helicopter unable to access the area. In light of this setback, additional rescuers, including SANParks – Table Mountain National Park rangers, hurried up the trail to provide assistance.
After receiving a thorough assessment and treatment from a Western Cape Government Health and Wellness EMS paramedic, the hiker was found to be stable enough to attempt a slow walk. In a critical decision, the rescue team opted to guide her over the mountain rather than return through the steep ravine, which could pose further risks.
Utilising rope-hauling systems, the team carefully assisted the hiker as they navigated the challenging terrain. Though visibly drained after the ordeal, the hiker’s determination shone through.
Eventually, she was secured in a rescue stretcher and escorted down the final stretch of the trail, where her awaiting family and friends were relieved to see her at Suikerbossie Restaurant & Estate.
The rigorous operation concluded successfully, with all parties safely off the mountain by 7:30pm.
‘We urge all hikers, especially in larger groups, to exercise extreme caution on steep terrain, as the ground can be unstable after rain, mind your step and avoid dislodging any debris, as even small stones can lead to cascading injuries,’ said David Nel, a spokesperson for WSAR.
Nel also highlighted the importance of being cautious in areas devastated by recent fires, noting that the recovery of stabilising vegetation has yet to occur.
‘We thank our remarkable rescue teams for their unwavering dedication and wish our patient a swift recovery.’
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Picture: WSAR / Grant Duncan-Smith
