A wilderness ranger has been recognised with a national award for her role in the successful rescue of seven bushwalkers during her very first shift.
Charlotte Blake received the Non-Professional Commendation at the recent Australian Search and Rescue Awards for her efforts in the Western Arthurs Range rescue operation in December 2023.
The rangers encountered several walkers who were ‘in a tough spot’ due to a lack of knowledge about the environment, the weather and their own abilities.
The group had been attempting to complete one of Tasmania’s most remote and demanding walking tracks when conditions deteriorated.
“Anyone in my position would have provided aid to the best of their abilities and I am just grateful that everyone got down off the range safely,” Blake said.
“It is nice to be individually recognised, but the reality is that I acted as just one member of the wilderness ranger team, who spend weeks every summer helping walkers stay safe and get the most out of their outdoor experiences throughout Tasmania.”
The rangers walked seven people off the range during conditions that were described as ‘life-threatening’.
Four of the hikers were eventually evacuated by helicopter and the other three were able to walk out.
Blake’s actions were praised by Parks and Wildlife, which said they likely prevented at least one death from hypothermia.
“Her ability to manage a protracted incident in severe conditions truly demonstrated she went above and beyond her duties,” PWS said.
