A dramatic rescue operation unfolded in Tasmania after a kayaker became trapped in a rocky crevasse along the dangerous Franklin River.
The rescue, described as one of the most challenging and technical ever attempted in the region, ended with the kayaker’s leg being amputated to save his life.
The incident occurred on Friday when a 60-year-old foreign tourist was paddling the fast-flowing Franklin River with friends, according to Digi24.
Known for its rugged beauty and dangerous rapids, the Franklin River stretches 78 miles (125 kilometers) through Tasmania’s pristine wilderness, making it a popular yet risky destination for adventure seekers.
Decided to Amputate
According to Tasmanian police, the man’s leg became wedged between rocks in a particularly treacherous section of the river.
His companions alerted emergency services using the distress signal on his smartwatch. This initiated a "complex and very lengthy" rescue mission involving multiple teams of emergency responders.
The operation was hampered by the remote location and the cold, swift waters of the river.
Rescuers attempted for hours to free the kayaker’s leg but were ultimately unsuccessful.
Partially submerged in the icy water for an extended period, the man’s health deteriorated rapidly, putting his life at immediate risk.
By Saturday, rescue teams made the difficult decision to amputate his leg at the site to save him. The kayaker was sedated before the procedure was carried out.
"This rescue was an extremely difficult and technical operation and represented an incredible multi-hour effort to save this man’s life," said police spokesperson Doug Oosterloo.
Following the amputation, the kayaker was airlifted to the Royal Hobart Hospital in Tasmania. Authorities reported that he remains in critical condition.
The Franklin River, part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, is renowned for its challenging rapids, remote stretches, and cold waters.
While it draws experienced adventurers from around the world, its isolation and dangerous conditions make rescues particularly difficult.
