Media Release

Australian Defence Force personnel attached to the Australian High Commission in Port Moresby today successfully rescued another hiker on the infamous Kokoda Track.

Some of the five-member team were involved in a similar rescue of a British tourist in January this year.

Today's casualty, a 52-year-old Australian male who preferred not to be identified, is tonight recovering from his ordeal. Found without water or food, he was suspected of suffering from malaria.

In a repeat of the January incident, the Australian High Commission Consular section was alerted earlier today by the Koiari Development Authority that a man walking on the track was in trouble and required urgent assistance.

The Deputy Head of Australian Defence Staff at the High Commission, Lieutenant Colonel Richard Humby, said the rescue party flew out by a chartered helicopter first to Kokoda Village to pick up a local guide, then to Kagi to locate the man.

The helicopter returned to Port Moresby late this afternoon and the man was taken to the High Commission's medical centre at Waigani for a medical check. He is now listed in a satisfactory condition.

"This is the second consular operation of this kind this year and will probably not be the last," Colonel Humby said. "Fortunately today's casualty was well insured which should cover the expenses associated with his rescue.

"Many individuals decide to walk the track without due regard to the hazards and arduous conditions. We are continually warning potential adventurers."

Today's rescue team consisted of a Navy doctor, Lieutenant Commander Jeff Day, and four Army personnel, Captain Simon Bliss, Warrant Officer Ben White, Warrant Officer Steve Paterson and Staff Sergeant Steve Brinfield, the latter three having been involved in the January rescue.

Ms Meike Flach,
Acting Consul General:  675 3259333 (Ext 312)

Issued by the Defence Public Affairs Organisation, Department of Defence, Canberra, ACT, 2600

back