Thread: Teacher dies in front of students while abseiling

Man dies during abseiling excursion at popular caves

An abseiling teacher who was exploring a popular cave on a high school excursion has plunged to his death in front of students.


An abseiling instructor has died after he fell into a popular cave during a high school excursion in Western Australia.

Emergency crews were called to Brides Cave in Boranup about 3.20pm on Thursday following reports a 53-year-old man had fallen during the abseiling activity and needed to be medically evacuated.

The man became unresponsive and died at the scene near Margaret River.
Police said multiple students were inside the cave at the time.


A Western Australia Police spokesman said the man was facilitating an abseiling excursion with a group of students and teachers from a Perth high school when he fell.
It’s understood Year 11 students from Newman College were on a abseiling and hiking excursion in the Margaret River region on Thursday.


“A number of students and teachers had already abseiled down to the bottom of the cave area when the instructor fell,” the spokesman said.


“First aid was provided to the man until an RAC Rescue helicopter paramedic was lowered down into the cave and took over care of the patient.”
“DFES State Emergency Service volunteers and colleagues of the deceased man were able to provide guidance and instruction to safely recover the deceased, students and teachers from the bottom of the cave.”
Margaret River Shire President Paula Cristoffanini said it is with great sadness to hear of this tragic incident.
“Yesterday, we lost a much-loved local member of our community and I’d like to extend my condolences with the victim’s family, friends and all involved in this unfortunate event,” Ms Cristoffanini said.
“We are a close and resilient community here in Margaret River, and now is a time to support once another and all who knew this wonderful man. He will be greatly missed.”
WorkSafe have been advised of the incident, and a report will be prepared for the Coroner.
Newman College has been contacted.

https://www.news.com.au/travel/travel-updates/incidents/man-dies-during-abseiling-excursion-at-popular-caves/news-story/6799243a39c19526e4ba48e2ef19b750

Tragic incident in one of the finest areas on earth with excellent hospitality beaches and wines to die for.

If you are lucky enough to visit can be done in a leisurely 1 week loop out of Perth airport, longer better.

"Okay, when abseiling, don't do this."


Sounds like he taught them exceptionally well, with probably the best lesson an abseiling teacher could give.

If he was the instructor I have serious concerns about the safety of the students.

Originally Posted by DrWilly

If he was the instructor I have serious concerns about the safety of the students.

Nah, he won't be teaching them any more.