How rescuers saved head-injured hiker in 9-hour operation

A HIKER had a narrow escape when she sustained a head injury from a dislodged rock on Myburgh's Waterfall Ravine in Hout Bay. 

The  30-year-old was successfully saved following a nine-hour operation which was severely hampered when the helicopter rescue attempt had to be aborted due to strong wind. 

The operation saw more than 25 dedicated volunteers and professionals from Wilderness Search And Rescue (WSAR) Western Cape responding to the incident on Saturday. 

A  large group of hikers reported that one of their members had been struck on the head by a rock. The group of 50 hikers had started from the Suikerbossie Restaurant & Estate, intending to climb Myburgh's Waterfall Ravine and return via Llandudno Ravine.

“While ascending the steep ravine a 30-year-old hiker was struck by a dislodged rock. Realising that she was injured and unable to continue, a member of the group immediately called the emergency contact number – 021 937 0300. While rescuers were mustering near the landing zone awaiting the arrival of the Western Cape Government Health and Wellness EMS / Air Mercy Service (AMS) rescue helicopter, a small group of specialist trail runners were dispatched as a hasty team to assess the patient and confirm her location,” said the WSAR.

Strong winds gusting at over 60 knots prevented the rescue helicopter from accessing the area and additional rescuers, including SANParks - Table Mountain National Park rangers and SEAM team members, swiftly made their way up the trail to help.

“The hiker, after being assessed and treated by a Western Cape Government Health and Wellness EMS paramedic, was found to be stable enough to walk slowly. A decision was taken to avoid descending the steep ravine and rather continue up and over the mountain, returning via Llandudno Ravine. Team members helped the hiker into a harness and constructed multiple rope hauling systems to carefully support her as they slowly navigated the rest of the steep trail.”

 WSAR spokesperson David Nel said more care needed to be taken near areas that have been impacted by the recent fires, as the stabilising vegetation has not yet recovered.

“We urge all hikers, especially larger groups of hikers, to be extremely careful when navigating steep terrain, as the ground may be unstable in places after rain. Mind your step and avoid dislodging any debris, as even small stones have the potential to cause a cascade that could injure someone below you. Be mindful that the trails are wet and will be slippery in places.”

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