Rescue chopper dispatched to Torndirrup National Park in Albany after rock climber falls from cliff

Daryna Zadvirna and Sarah MakseThe West Australian
VideoRock climber plunges 8m in Albany

A Perth man rock climbing near The Gap in Albany has been rescued and taken to hospital after falling seven metres down a cliff face.

Fire and Emergency Services were called to the popular tourist spot at the Torndirrup National Park just before 2pm.

A Police spokesman said the man was rock climbing at the end of the road leading to Cave Point Lighthouse about 500 metres south of The Gap when he fell seven metres onto granite.

Camera IconThe RAC Rescue Helicopter attended the scene. Credit: Sarah Makse/ Albany Advertiser

The RAC Rescue Helicopter was dispatched but the man was managed to be pulled up to safety by volunteers.

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A police spokesman said Albany SES Volunteers used their vertical rescue expertise to extract the man from the rocks and the helicopter was not required.

Camera IconThe rock climber was taken in an ambulance to Albany Health Campus. Credit: Taj Stubber/ Albany Advertiser

It is understood he has escaped serious injury but was taken to the Albany Health Campus by ambulance at about 4.30pm.

The police spokesman said the man’s rock climbing ropes might have softened his fall and it was “amazing” he was not more seriously injured.

Camera IconTorndirrup National Park. Credit: Sarah Makse/ Albany Advertiser

St John Ambulance received a call about 1.53pm, with reports that the trapped man was “conscious and alert”.

Entry to The Gap and Natural Bridge remains open.

Camera IconA sign at the entrance of the Cave Point Lighthouse. Credit: Taj Stubber/ Albany Advertiser

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