Horror as a rappeller falls to his death in front of schoolchildren during a field trip
- Abseiling instructor fell at Brides Cave, three hours from Perth
- He taught a field trip group in high school
- Some teachers and students were already at the base
A rappelling instructor has fallen in front of shocked students and teachers during a school field trip at a popular Australian natural landmark.
The 53-year-old was teaching students from a Perth high school who had traveled to Brides Cave in Boranup, three hours south of the WA capital.
Police were initially called to the known location near the tourist town of Margaret River at around 3:20 p.m. Thursday to support SES volunteers and paramedics.
“A number of students and teachers had already abseiled to the bottom of the cave when the instructor fell,” police said in a statement.
Brides Cave in Boranup (pictured) near Margaret River is a popular spot for abseiling. Students at a Perth high school were on a field trip when their instructor collapsed
The man received first aid until a paramedic from the RAC Rescue helicopter was lowered into the cave and took over caring for the patient.
Unfortunately, he could not be brought back to life.
“Volunteers from the DFES State Emergency Service and the man’s colleagues were able to provide guidance and instructions to safely retrieve the deceased, students and teachers from the bottom of the cave.”
WorkSafe WA is aware of the incident and is investigating.
A report is being prepared for the coroner.
Some students and teachers had already abseiled to the bottom of the cave (pictured) and administered first aid to the man