Tasmania Police Search and Rescue have responded to two separate walking groups on Saturday 27 April 2013 and Monday 29 April 2013. Both groups had embarked on a 3 day return walk to Lake Rhona, which requires crossing the Gordon River at the start and end of their walk.

Rainfall in the area caused the river to rise, making the crossing impossible unless you are a very competent swimmer.

On both occasions the Westpac Police Rescue Helicopter was tasked with picking the stranded walking groups up. There were 4 walkers in each group; one member of the second group swam across the river to raise the alarm.

Tasmania Police would like to remind people attempting this walk that they must take adequate provisions and be prepared to wait for the river level to fall, which could take several days.

There may be times when Police Search and Rescue, in particular the rescue helicopter, are unable to reach this area particularly with inclement weather over the winter months.