URGENT UPDATE: A hiker has miraculously survived a 50-metre plunge down Mount Sugarloaf in central Victoria and walked away unscathed after a two-hour ordeal clinging to a rock face. Authorities confirm the daring rescue took place in Cathedral Range State Park near Taggerty on July 29.
The incident unfolded around midday when the 24-year-old man from Oak Park lost his footing while bushwalking alone. He found himself trapped on the mountainside, with no clear path for ascent or descent.
Rescue teams, including members from Victoria Police, Ambulance Victoria, Country Fire Authority, and the State Emergency Service, were promptly deployed to locate him near Cerberus Road. The hiker was safely winched to safety by the Victoria Police Air Wing around 2 PM, after enduring a harrowing wait in precarious conditions.
Remarkably, police reported that the hiker escaped without any injuries. This incident highlights the risks associated with the challenging terrain of Mount Sugarloaf, which requires a reasonable level of fitness and rock scrambling skills.
Parks Victoria emphasizes that while fit and experienced walkers can enjoy the short yet demanding scramble up to Sugarloaf Peak, caution is essential due to the uneven surfaces.
As authorities continue to assess the situation, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of outdoor activities. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story, and ensure safety precautions are taken when venturing into rugged areas.
