In a harrowing event that spanned 20 hours, a tourist who fell into a rock crevice on the Franklin River had to undergo emergency amputation to save his life.
**Tragic Kayaking Accident in Tasmania Leads to Amputation as Heroic Rescuers Act Swiftly**

**Tragic Kayaking Accident in Tasmania Leads to Amputation as Heroic Rescuers Act Swiftly**
A tourist's life hangs in the balance after a catastrophic incident during a kayaking adventure in Tasmania, prompting a dramatic rescue operation.
The incident unfolded as the man, who was part of a kayaking group in southwestern Tasmania, found himself trapped between rocks in a tumultuous river. Initial attempts to free him proved futile, leading to a dire situation in which he was partially submerged under the raging waters. Emergency services were alerted when the man's smartwatch activated its distress signal, triggering a prompt response from authorities.
Rescue operations were intense and complex, with rescue teams struggling overnight to extract the man as conditions worsened. Police indicated that the decision to amputate the leg was made in consultation with the victim and was deemed necessary for his survival. "This rescue was an extremely challenging and technical operation, and an incredible effort over many hours to save the man’s life,” stated Doug Oosterloo, acting assistant commissioner at Tasmania Police.
Despite being well-prepared for a kayaking experience, the tourist was unready for the freezing temperatures and prolonged immersion in cold water. As the situation escalated, rescuers realized that remaining trapped risked his life, prompting the critical decision.
The man is currently in critical condition in a nearby hospital. Oosterloo remarked on the disheartening nature of the incident, explaining that while the tourist was scouting the area when he slipped, a detailed investigation will also be conducted to understand the circumstances surrounding the event. The remaining 10 kayakers, who were with him at the time of the accident, were safely airlifted from the area, and authorities plan to gather their testimonies to build a complete picture of what transpired.
Rescue operations were intense and complex, with rescue teams struggling overnight to extract the man as conditions worsened. Police indicated that the decision to amputate the leg was made in consultation with the victim and was deemed necessary for his survival. "This rescue was an extremely challenging and technical operation, and an incredible effort over many hours to save the man’s life,” stated Doug Oosterloo, acting assistant commissioner at Tasmania Police.
Despite being well-prepared for a kayaking experience, the tourist was unready for the freezing temperatures and prolonged immersion in cold water. As the situation escalated, rescuers realized that remaining trapped risked his life, prompting the critical decision.
The man is currently in critical condition in a nearby hospital. Oosterloo remarked on the disheartening nature of the incident, explaining that while the tourist was scouting the area when he slipped, a detailed investigation will also be conducted to understand the circumstances surrounding the event. The remaining 10 kayakers, who were with him at the time of the accident, were safely airlifted from the area, and authorities plan to gather their testimonies to build a complete picture of what transpired.