Distress Beacon proves invaluable in the off road environment

25 February 2010

On 22 February, an activated 406 MHz distress beacon registered to a motorcyclist undertaking a ride around Australia was detected by satellite.  The Rescue Coordination Centre - Australia (RCC) tasked a local helicopter from the Mulga Downs Station to hone on the beacon position.

The pilot was able to locate the sole rider, who had sustained major but not life threatening injuries in a crash. The person was transported back to Mulga Downs by helicopter to await an ambulance.

It’s a valuable reminder that a distress alerting device cannot only be carried while undertaking activities at sea or in the air, but also on land.