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Kimberley tourist hurt in cliff fall

A 55-year-old tourist was being treated in Broome last night after falling into a gorge in the King Leopold Ranges in the Kimberley.

The man is believed to have been walking with his brother when he slipped on a rock at Bell Gorge shortly before 1pm yesterday.

The brother used a satellite phone to call for help but did not have GPS equipment to pinpoint their location.

He apparently tried to call emergency services several times but reception allowed only two successful calls.

Department of Fire and Emergency Services Central Kimberley district officer Glenn Hall said a helicopter and caravan with a paramedic, DFES staff and six SES volunteers specialising in cliff rescues were sent.

The pilot managed an "awkward" landing and, after more than five hours in pain, the man was rescued about 6.30pm. He has suspected spinal injuries.

He is the second Kimberley tourist rescued in a week.

Mr Hall said people venturing into remote places should go in groups and be prepared for accidents.