Two climbers were rescued after becoming stranded atop the Totem Pole in Cape Hauy, Tasmania, during a stormy night. Their predicament began around 6pm when they reported that their climbing ropes had become entangled due to fierce winds, preventing them from getting back to safety. Initial rescue attempts via helicopter were thwarted by hazardous weather conditions.
Officers from the local police collaborated with the Climbing Club of Tasmania’s vertical rescue team and Ambulance Tasmania to reach the climbers. After a challenging ascent from Fortescue Bay in dark, wet, and windy circumstances, the rescue team successfully reached the climbers late last night.
As sunrise approached, the climbers were secured to rescue ropes and gradually transported 50 metres down to safety. Fortunately, they suffered no injuries and were treated on-site by a paramedic. The pair, who were visiting from interstate, were noted to possess a reasonable level of climbing experience.