CapeNature rangers praised for heroic rescue of stranded UK tourist
A visit to the iconic Robberg Nature Reserve and Marine Protected Area — one of the Garden Route’s most celebrated gems — turned into a life-threatening ordeal for a London tourist, and a powerful reminder of humanity of CapeNature’s field rangers.
For Ms Rosalind Innes, Robberg had been a long-awaited addition to her South African travel itinerary. But as she navigated one of the narrow, rocky sections near the Point of Robberg, her adventure took a sudden and frightening turn. A slip on the rugged terrain left her with a broken ankle, stranded in a secluded area under rapidly worsening weather conditions.
Injured, and unable to move without assistance, Ms Innes accompanied by her husband faced a daunting reality. The two of them struggled to walk, as she was in pain and she required assistance especially over the uneven terrain.
CapeNature EPWP general worker Vuyani Charlie, who was doing trail maintenance on the boardwalk nearby was alerted of the incident by the injured Rosalind Iness’s husband. Realising the gravity of the situation, he reassured them that he would return with help. Once he reached higher ground in search of a cell phone signal, he managed to get hold of the Field Rangers on duty, namely Charles Minnaar and Petrus Lamini.
It took Petrus Lamini and Charles Minnaar some time to get to the injured as they were at The Point at Robberg and the Field Rangers were on the Island doing trail maintenance. Together, the three men worked with calm precision and compassionate care, navigating slippery rocks, supporting Ms Innes’ injured leg, and shielding her from the harsh elements. What followed was a gruelling four-hour rescue effort, requiring physical endurance, teamwork, and unrelenting determination to bring her to safety.
Ms Rosalind Innes flanked by her rescuers Vuyani Charlie (l) and Petrus Lamini (r).
Ms Rosalind Innes being assisted by staff from Robberg Nature Reserve.
Ms Innes is still emotional when recalling the experience.
I truly do not know what I would have done without them. I owe them my life, particularly Vuyani Charlie, as I was simply not strong enough to get out on my own. They kept me calm and safe, and supported me both physically and mentally through a horrendous ordeal.
Once out of danger, she was transported to a local hospital, where she received the medical attention, she needed.
CapeNature CEO, Dr Ashley Naidoo, commended the swift and professional action of the staff members.
Our field rangers are more than custodians of our natural heritage — they are protectors, guides, and often the first responders when things go wrong. Their rapid assessment, coordinated response, and sustained effort over several hours ensured the safe recovery and evacuation of a stranded hiker under challenging conditions. They turned a potentially devastating situation into a story of hope, resilience, and teamwork. These continue to be our South African themes.
For Ms Innes, her South African journey will forever be remembered — not for the fall, but for the extraordinary kindness of the strangers who became her heroes.
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