Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
The Canberra Times
The Canberra Times
Soofia Tariq

ACT government reviewing safety of Gibraltar Falls after teen swimmer dies

Popular swimming spot Gibraltar Falls, where a 19-year-old died on Sunday. Picture by Jay Cronan

The ACT government will review the safety and access to Gibraltar Falls after a teenager died at the popular swimming spot in South Canberra on Sunday.

ACT Policing said the 19-year-old man was swimming with friends when he slipped and hit his head on the cliff on Sunday morning.

Members from Tuggeranong Station, Rural Patrol, Search and Rescue, ACT Ambulance Service, ACT Fire & Rescue and the Toll Helicopter were dispatched to the man's location.

ACT Parks and Conservation rangers and passers-by provided assistance and first aid until emergency services arrived, however the man was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Canberra Times understands the teenager was an Australian National University student from interstate.

An ACT government spokesperson said the thoughts of the government are with the family and friends of the young man and there will be a review.

"The Conservator of Flora and Fauna in conjunction with the ACT Parks and Conservation Service is reviewing the safety and access to Gibraltar Falls," the spokesperson said on Monday.

"The review will not pre-empt the findings of a coronial inquiry following the incident, but interim public safety measures may be put in place.

"The incident is an unfortunate reminder of the risks that exist in the outdoors.

"The ACT Parks and Conservation recommends against swimming or walking at Gibraltar Falls in non-designated areas. The cliff edges are extremely dangerous. Visitors should follow the signage to keep to the path away from the cliff edge."

We've made it a whole lot easier for you to have your say. Our new comment platform requires only one log-in to access articles and to join the discussion on The Canberra Times website. Find out how to register so you can enjoy civil, friendly and engaging discussions. See our moderation policy here.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.