10/06/2026
Stories like this are a powerful reminder of just how much work goes into a rescue in regional and remote Western Australia.
When an American visitor suffered serious injuries after a fall in Karijini National Park, it wasn't just one agency that responded. Parks and Wildlife Service Rangers, St John WA and SES volunteers worked together in challenging terrain to carry out a complex rescue that took more than five hours and involved safely extracting the patient 60 metres from the gorge.
A special acknowledgement must also go to the four young hikers who were first on the scene, providing first aid and raising the alarm. Their quick actions played an important role in the successful outcome.
Across Western Australia, search and rescue operations often take place in some of the most remote and difficult-to-access environments in the world. Behind every successful rescue are highly trained professionals and dedicated volunteers who give their time, expertise and energy to help others when they need it most.
The fact that responders were able to reach, stabilise and safely evacuate the injured hiker so quickly in such a challenging location is a testament to the capability, coordination and commitment of Western Australia's search and rescue community.
Congratulations and thank you to everyone involved in this incredible rescue. Western Australia should be proud of the people who stand ready to answer the call when emergencies happen in the outdoors.