Nine bushwalkers have been rescued in two separate multi-agency operations in the Blue Mountains overnight.
About 6.30pm (Saturday 24 August 2024), emergency services were called to Wentworth Falls following reports five teenage boys – aged 15 and 16 – had become lost while bushwalking within the Blue Mountains National Park.
A command post was established by officers from Blue Mountains Police Area Command and with the assistance of the Rescue and Bomb Disposal Unit and PolAir, police entered bushland and were able to locate them.
About 10.30pm, the boys were assisted out of the bush and treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics for minor injuries.
Just before 7pm, a second multi-agency search commenced in bushland near Beauchamp Falls, Blackheath, after reports four men – aged in their 20s – had also become lost while bushwalking.
The group activated a personal locator beacon (PLB) which enabled PolAir to locate them swiftly.
The men were walked out of the bush just before midnight, and were assessed by NSW Ambulance paramedics.
Fire and Rescue NSW also attended and provided assistance.
Blue Mountains Police Area Command Duty Officer, Inspector Steven Vuletas, said as the weather warms up and more people get out into nature, it is a timely reminder for intended bushwalkers to always have an appropriate communication plan.
"No matter how experienced a bushwalker may be, it is imperative that they always have with them all the appropriate safety equipment including suitable clothing, food, water, and communication devices," said Insp Vuletas.
"Whenever heading on a bushwalk, people should have a fully-charged mobile phone, along with additional charging devices. Taking a GPS-enabled Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) will help rescuers should you find yourself in difficulty.
"It is also important to let someone know your intended route, what tracks you are taking and your estimated return time. If there is any change to the original plan, then tell someone," Insp Vuletas said.
"To make your bushwalk a safe one, please register your trip with the appropriate agency, such as the National Parks and Wildlife Service, and think before you trek – know the weather conditions, know your physical abilities, and plan your route and stick to it," Insp Vuletas said.
