21/11/2024
Rescue and Search for Missing Hiker in Wye Creek Area
A report from Wakatipu Search and Rescue and an enormous thank you to the Lakes District Air Rescue Trust.
The search and rescue operation on 21 November for the missing hiker, in the area stretching from Wye Creek, The Doolans and the Remarkables ski area was a testament to the dedication and expertise of various volunteer specialised teams.
This challenging mission involved the Wakatipu Search and Rescue Sub-Alpine team, the Alpine Cliff Rescue team, and highly trained Search Dogs, all working in unison to locate and rescue the missing individual.
The operation was coordinated and run out of the new Wakatipu Search and Rescue Incident Management base, ensuring a streamlined and effective response.
The weather was very variable with snow, wind, and rain which tested our the volunteers determination to put the missing persons welfare above their own
The terrain in this search area is stark, steep, snow-covered and covered in waist high tussock, spear grass and often treacherous underfoot.
Search Teams and Their Roles
The Wakatipu Search and Rescue Sub-Alpine team brought extensive knowledge of the rugged terrain and the necessary skills to navigate it safely. Their experience in sub-alpine environments was crucial for searching the vast and often treacherous areas where the hiker was believed to be.
Complementing their efforts, the Alpine Cliff Rescue team provided expertise in technical climbing, snow travel and rope rescue, essential for traversing the steep and dangerous cliffs that characterise the head of the valley.
Search Dogs also played a vital role in the operation, utilising their acute senses of smell and agility to cover large areas more quickly than human searchers alone could. These dogs are specially trained to detect human scent in challenging conditions, making them invaluable assets in locating missing persons in wilderness areas.
Helicopter Support
Helicopter support was a critical component of the search, provided by Heliworks using two helicopters. These aircraft allowed for rapid deployment of search teams to remote and inaccessible areas, as well as aerial reconnaissance to spot potential signs of the missing hiker from above. The helicopters also facilitated the transportation of essential equipment and supplies, ensuring that the search teams remained well-equipped throughout the operation and the rescued subject back to base.
Incident Management Base
The new Incident Management base served as the command centre for the entire operation, coordinating the efforts of all involved teams. This facility enabled efficient communication and resource allocation, ensuring that every aspect of the search was meticulously planned and executed.
Our Gratitude extends to Altrusa Queenstown and an amazing young woman, Savannah Neal, for their efforts in fundraising for this Incident Management building. Without their incredible support for its purchase, we could still be making-do in other less fit-for-purpose places and away from staging area of our SAR operations.
Support from Lakes District Air Rescue Trust (LDART)
The Lakes District Air Rescue Trust (LDART) has continuously provided ongoing support for the search and rescue services, with vital funding that allowed the SAR volunteers to maintain their helicopter deployment skills and ensure they had the essential equipment to stay safe during such operations. Their unwavering support in both funding and equipment provision has been constant and indispensable, enabling the search teams to perform their duties effectively and safely.
Gratitude to LDART
Wakatipu Search and Rescue extends their heartfelt gratitude to LDART for their essential and unwavering support. The funding for necessary equipment and ongoing helicopter training is critical to the success of all Wakatipu search and rescue missions. Without this support, the ability to conduct such comprehensive and effective operations would be severely hindered. The dedication of LDART to the safety and proficiency of our Wakatipu SAR volunteers truly makes a difference in the lives of those they rescue.
The search and rescue operation for the missing hiker in the Wye Creek to Remarkables ski area showcased the exceptional collaboration and expertise of multiple specialised teams. Through the combined efforts of the Wakatipu Search and Rescue Sub-Alpine team, Alpine Cliff Rescue, Search Dogs, and the essential support from Heliworks and LDART, the mission was conducted with precision and determination. The unwavering support from LDART in providing funding and equipment underscores the importance of community and organizational involvement in ensuring the safety and success of search and rescue operations.
This operation serves as a reminder of the bravery and dedication of our volunteer Search and Rescue teams, whose tireless efforts save lives and bring hope to those in need. The hiker's rescue is a testament to their skill, courage, and the vital support they receive from organisations like LDART.
