Police are encouraging people on wilderness walks to be prepared for all possibilities, after two men were rescued from the Cradle Mountain area yesterday. 

Western Search and Rescue OIC, Inspector Steve Jones said, “around 2.15pm yesterday, emergency services responded to a request for assistance from two men walking back to Kitchen Hut who were experiencing medical issues.” 

“The two men were suitably prepared for a day trip with communication devices, ropes, helmets, ice axes, limited food, tarps, warm and dry sleeping bags and mats, and head torches – however they were not prepared to camp overnight if they faced difficulty. 

“A land-based Search and Recue team were dispatched, consisting of two police and two wilderness paramedics.” 

Due to rain, hail, wind and snowfall in the area, the Westpac Rescue Helicopter was not dispatched as it was unsafe to fly in the conditions. 

“The rescue party reached the men – one had fallen around 1.5metres while rock climbing and the other had developed abdominal pains and sickness.”  

The rescued men received medical treatment from paramedics and were walked back to the Dove Lake carpark. The man with abdominal pains was transported to hospital and the other man received minor injuries only. 

“In this instance the men were suitably prepared for their day trip and rescue parties reached them on the same day – this is not always the outcome. 

“I encourage anyone planning on exploring Tasmania’s wilderness or alpine areas to carry equipment to keep them safe until the arrival of emergency services if required.”