Two women rescued from Western Arthur Range after beacon call

Police said bad weather stopped the helicopter flying directly to the stranded pair. Image / Tasmania Police

Two bushwalkers have been rescued from the Western Arthur Range in Tasmania’s south-west after bad weather forced rescuers to reach them on foot.

The women, aged 58 and 26, set off a satellite device at Haven Lake around 8pm on Saturday, saying they needed help because of the conditions.

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Police said the weather stopped a rescue helicopter from flying directly to the pair.

Instead, the helicopter dropped a search and rescue crew on Arthurs Plains at 5am on Sunday and the crew hiked in from there.

Police said bad weather stopped the helicopter flying directly to the stranded pair. Image / Tasmania Police

Rescuers found the women around 8am. Both were checked as a precaution but did not need medical treatment and they were taken back to Hobart.

Police said the pair were well equipped for their overnight camping trip and had the right supplies and communication gear.

Rescuers reached the women on foot. Image / Tasmania Police

Their personal locator beacon meant emergency services could respond quickly.

“It’s a timely reminder for bushwalkers in remote areas to carry sufficient food, water, communication equipment and emergency shelter for unexpected delays,” Senior Constable Cameron Rennie said.

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“It’s also really important to ensure all gear, such as equipment and clothing, is independently stowed so it keeps dry.”