A woman in her twenties fell from a waterfall in the NSW Southern Highlands, leading to grave concerns for her safety. Emergency services, including police and the NSW State Emergency Service, conducted a search for the woman after she reportedly fell into the water around 1pm on a Sunday afternoon. Belmore Falls, where the incident occurred, is a popular tourist attraction known for its three drops ranging from 77 to 130 metres. Unfortunately, fading light forced the search to be suspended on Sunday evening, with plans to resume the following morning.
The search for the woman who fell from Belmore Falls has sparked memories of a previous tragedy at the same location. Last September, Jeisson Leon, a 28-year-old Colombian living in Mascot, died after falling from a cliff while abseiling at the falls. It took authorities three hours to recover his body, and the incident prompted a warning from NPWS officials. They urged travelers not to attempt hiking to the base of Belmore and Gerringong waterfalls, as the formal tracks to these areas have been closed for at least five years. Despite these closures, there has been an increase in illegal access fueled by social media, according to NPWS area manager Graham Bush.
The dangers of waterfalls were further highlighted by a tragic incident in Queensland, where a 27-year-old man fell from a waterfall outside Cairns and could not be revived. The man’s fall occurred over several meters, and his death adds to the list of waterfall-related accidents. Belmore Falls, along with many other waterfalls, present unique hazards that can be exacerbated by illegal access or risky behavior. The closure of the falls following the woman’s fall in the NSW Southern Highlands will allow emergency services to conduct a thorough search and investigation into the incident.
The closure of Belmore Falls due to the recent incidents serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to safety guidelines and respecting signage and barriers at popular tourist attractions. Despite the allure of social media posts showcasing hidden or off-limits locations, the risks associated with accessing these areas illegally can be severe, as evidenced by the tragic accidents at Belmore Falls. The NPWS’s public plea to avoid hiking to the base of waterfalls emphasizes the need for caution and awareness of one’s surroundings when exploring natural environments.
As the search for the missing woman continues at Belmore Falls, authorities are likely to emphasize the need for caution and preparedness when visiting natural attractions. Waterfalls can pose significant risks due to slippery conditions, steep drops, and rugged terrain, making it essential for visitors to follow designated paths and exercise care while enjoying these sites. Tragic incidents like the falls in the Southern Highlands and Queensland serve as somber reminders of the potential dangers inherent in natural environments, underscoring the importance of safety measures and responsible behavior when exploring wilderness areas. By heeding warnings from park officials and adhering to guidelines, visitors can help ensure their safety and the preservation of the natural beauty of these locations.
