Left Face Table Mountain

At 18h16 on Thursday the 17th of October 2019 the Peninsula Wilderness Search And Rescue (WSAR) was activated after a caller reported that her husband was stuck in a position where he could not move, and his safety was a concern.

Metro Medical Rescue Technicians, Rescue Mountaineers and Rescue Climbers responded to the Lower Cable Station from where they reached the Upper Cable Station via the Cable Car. From here they carried climbing rope and other rescue equipment to the edge of the Left Face of  Table Mountain near Maclear’s Beacon. As darkness set in a Rescue Climber who was monitoring the situation from his home west of the mountain, was able to use the drop pin that was provided, as well as a light that was being shone by the stranded hiker, to locate the person high up on the rock face.

A system of rope and safety anchors were arranged to enable rescuers to access the 62 year old local male hiker. It is understood that he had lost his way on a seldom used path and ended up in a dead end. By this time cloud had rolled in causing reduced visibility and temperature.  On arrival at the hiker he was found to be cold and without any injuries. The gentleman was placed in a safety harness and then hauled up the face of the mountain to the top.

Once all were safe, the rope systems were de rigged and the full compliment hiked across the top of Table Mountain to the Upper Cable Station. The operation was concluded after all descended the mountain via the Cable Car.

  • The Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company (TMAC) kindly assists WSAR during rescue operations when requested. WSAR would like to commend them and their staff who remained on duty in order to ensure a quick and safe rescue response.

WSAR urges the public to please:-

  • hike in groups
  • have a Peter Slingsby map at hand
  • carry a battery charger for your electronic devices
  • sick to well used dedicated hiking paths and routes
  • not continue when you suspect that you may have lost the path. Rather stay put and call the emergency number.

WSAR is a volunteer based organisation.

Call 021 937 0300 or 112 for any wilderness or mountain rescue response.

In association with the Western Cape Emergency Medical Services.

 

WSAR is a member of the International Commission of Alpine Rescue.

 

 

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