Another tragedy was narrowly avoided on Tuesday morning when a farm manager, Francois Maree, got into difficulties with a friend while using jet skis on the Buffalo River to assist with the hunt for the missing trio.
The heavy rain had turned the Buffalo into a swirling mass of rapids and the friend managed to get to safety while Francois found himself being taken by the river. He managed to tie himself to a willow tree to which he clung on to throughout Monday night. The alarm was raised and members of the Search and Rescue Team, police divers and farmers came to assist.

The Buffalo River in flood where Francois and a friend got into difficulties
Francois, who father is Brits – principal of Dundee Junior (his mum is a teacher at Sarel Cilliers)  was airlifted to safety and while cold and hungry, he appeared to be in good spirits. He was given a medical examination by ER24 paramedics who were present. The family thanked all those involved in his dramatic rescue.