The lifeless body of a 65-year-old cave diver has been successfully retrieved after a complex operation involving specialized teams. The incident took place at Tank Cave, close to Tantanoola in South Australia, prompting emergency services to respond to reports of a drowning on Sunday morning. The deceased diver, identified as Gary Gibson from Victoria, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Rescue efforts led by officers from the South Australia Water Operations Unit and expert divers from the Cave Divers Association of Australia culminated in the recovery of Mr. Gibson’s body on Monday afternoon. He had been diving alongside two other seasoned cave divers, who were understandably distressed by the tragic event, according to Superintendent Trent Cox.
Prior to the discovery of the body, Superintendent Cox mentioned during a press briefing that additional dives were being planned, acknowledging the potential challenges due to diver fatigue. While expressing hope for a successful recovery, he cautioned that it was not guaranteed.
Noteworthy assistance in the search was provided by retired anaesthetist and renowned cave diver Dr. Harris, known for his pivotal role in rescuing a group of young football players and their coach from a flooded cave in Thailand in 2018, as reported by ABC Australia.
Superintendent Cox highlighted that investigations into the circumstances surrounding Mr. Gibson’s death would be conducted, emphasizing the intricate nature of the cave system with its complex network of tunnels. The recovery took place at a specific location within the cave known as P7, situated approximately 15 miles from Mount Gambier, a popular diving destination boasting 32 dive sites in the area.
Tank Cave, described as an “extensive maze-like system” by the Cave Divers Association of Australia, features nearly 4 miles of passable underwater passages, making it one of the longest underwater caves in the country. Grant Pearce, the director of the association, fondly remembered Mr. Gibson as a humorous and vibrant individual. Pearce recounted that Mr. Gibson became separated from his companions after encountering a narrow passage that he couldn’t navigate, ultimately missing their designated rendezvous point.
Reflecting on Mr. Gibson’s diving proficiency and experience in the cave, Pearce expressed shock and sorrow at the news of his tragic end, expressing immediate concern for Mr. Gibson’s spouse.