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A kayaker in his 60s had his leg amputated during a 20-hour rescue operation after becoming trapped between rocks on the Franklin River in Tasmania, Australia. The man, an international visitor, was kayaking with a group when his leg became wedged in an area of rapids on Friday (November 22).
His smartwatch alerted emergency services about an hour after he got stuck. Despite several attempts to free him, the man remained partially submerged in the river. His condition deteriorated, leading to the decision to amputate his leg to facilitate his rescue. The operation was successfully carried out by the medical team with the aid of specialist equipment. The man was then airlifted to the Royal Hobart Hospital in Hobart, where he remains in critical condition.
Acting Assistant Commissioner Doug Oosterloo of Tasmania Police described the rescue as a "complex and protracted operation" and commended the "incredible effort" of the rescue teams.
The Franklin River, located in the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park, is a popular spot for kayaking and rafting. However, it is known for its rapid changes in weather and the "highly hazardous" nature of its whitewater river systems.