Coroner's Finding: de-identified SU
Demographics
30y, male
Date of death
2024-12-30
Finding date
2026-07-06
Cause of death
Multiple blunt force injuries
AI-generated summary
SU, aged 30, an experienced bushwalker, fell approximately 80-100 metres from Federation Peak on 30 December 2024 while undertaking the Eastern Arthur Range Traverse with two companions in Southwest National Park, Tasmania. The group encountered difficulties locating the established track due to poor navigation markers. After discovering the route was steeper and more exposed than expected with slippery surfaces and sheer drops, they decided to descend. As they sought a descent route, SU fell out of sight of his companions, resulting in catastrophic head injuries and multiple blunt force trauma that caused immediate incapacity and death. The coroner found that whilst SU was an experienced bushwalker, Federation Peak presents exceptional risks requiring highly specialized technical climbing skills. The coroner recommended that walkers carefully assess whether their experience is truly comparable to the specific challenge being undertaken, and be prepared to abandon or modify plans if conditions prove more difficult than anticipated.
AI-generated summary and tagging — may contain inaccuracies; refer to original finding for legal purposes.
Contributing factors
- Challenging terrain with steep cliffs and exposed drops
- Difficult navigation and unmarked track
- Slippery grassy rock surfaces
- Route more challenging than anticipated
- Separation from companions during descent
Coroner's recommendations
- Walkers contemplating the Eastern Arthur Range Traverse should refer to the PWS website for accurate and relevant information, walker notes, walker preparation content and safety messaging before embarking
- The traverse should only be undertaken by highly experienced walkers if within the individual's capabilities
- Walkers should carefully consider whether their experience is relevant and comparable to the hike being undertaken
- Walkers should be prepared to turn back or change their plans if weather conditions deteriorate or if the walk proves more challenging than expected
- Federation Peak is an ambitious choice for those undertaking their first hike in Tasmania
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