Investigation finds cave diver died after being separated from buddies
An investigation revealed that cave diver Gary Gibson died after becoming separated from his diving group in Tank Cave, South Australia.
An investigation by the Cave Divers Association of Australia has concluded that Gary Gibson, a 65-year-old cave diver, died while diving in Tantanoola's Tank Cave in South Australia. The incident, which occurred on November 29, 2025, involved Gibson becoming separated from his buddies during the dive. The investigation ruled out equipment failure, noting that his diving gear was functioning properly at the time of the incident.
Gibson's diving group discovered him unresponsive underwater, prompting them to swim to the surface and alert emergency services. This initiated a two-day recovery operation, which highlights the dangers faced by cave divers and the complexities involved in underwater rescues. The circumstances surrounding his separation from his group remain unclear, raising questions about diving safety protocols and the need for greater awareness among divers.
The state coroner's investigation into Gibson's death is still ongoing, which may provide further insights into the incident. This case underscores the risks associated with cave diving, particularly in remote locations, and the importance of adhering to safety measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.