Invitation
I warmly invite you to watch the film "Legenda Klimka". This exceptional documentary takes you on a journey through the life of Wojciech Nietyksza, highlighting his contribution to the development of radio and rescue technology, as well as the importance of his work for safety in the mountains. Discover the story of a man whose passion and innovations revolutionized mountain rescue in Poland. The film is available at the bottom of the page.
History and Context
"Legenda Klimka" tells the story of Wojciech Nietyksza, creator of the first radio sets used by GOPR and Polish mountaineers. It was through these devices, known as "Klimek", that the historic words about the first winter ascent of Mount Everest by Poles were transmitted. The film presents Nietyksza's extraordinary journey and the impact of his inventions on the safety and effectiveness of mountain rescue operations.
Direction and Production
The film was directed by Julia Kaczorowska, who also served as producer, cinematographer, and editor together with Filip Gracki. The documentary features, among others, Wojciech Nietyksza, his granddaughter Jadwiga Nietyksza, and well-known figures associated with the mountains and rescue services: Anna "Antenka" Kokesch, Maciej Gąsienica, Ryszard Dulski, Jerzy Surdel, and Konstanty "Kot" Chitulescu.
The film draws inspiration from historical articles published in the magazine "Taternik". In its 1960 issue, it described dramatic situations faced by mountain rescuers who had to operate without radio communications, often involving enormous risk. For many years, GOPR sought to purchase radio sets, but without success.
In 1966, also in the magazine "Taternik", information appeared about the delivery of the first batches of radio sets to the Tatra Group of GOPR. The high-standard equipment was designed and built by engineer Wojciech Nietyksza of Warsaw. These devices revolutionized climbing and rescue operations by providing reliable communications in difficult conditions.
About the Film
"Legenda Klimka" is a 40-minute documentary that, through interviews, archival materials, and the personal account of Wojciech Nietyksza's granddaughter, offers an insight into the life of this outstanding engineer. The film pays tribute to his work and passion, which forever changed the face of mountain rescue in Poland.
Conclusions
"Legenda Klimka" is not only the story of a technological breakthrough, but also a tale of courage, determination, and love for the mountains. Thanks to Wojciech Nietyksza's work, mountain rescuers can operate more effectively and safely, repeatedly saving the lives of many people.
This documentary is an important testament to the contribution of Polish engineers to the development of rescue technology and proof that a single innovative solution can change the world. "Legenda Klimka" impresses with its authenticity and profound respect for the history and the people who shaped it.
A Brief Biography of Wojciech Nietyksza
Wojciech Nietyksza was an outstanding designer and manufacturer of the portable "Klimek" and stationary "Wawa" radio sets. The radio sets he created formed the basis of the first operational radio communications system for mountain rescuers in Poland. From 1967 onward, he was a member of the Tatra Group of GOPR. Nietyksza's radio sets were also used by Polish mountaineers, including participants in the first winter expedition to Mount Everest in 1980. Nietyksza was an active member of the amateur radio community and an Honorary Member of the Polish Amateur Radio Union. At the time of his death, he was also the only Polish member of the Executive Committee of IARU Region 1, using the callsign SP5FM. In recognition of his overall achievements nationally and internationally, he was honored by the IARU with the Michael J. Owen Award VK3KI for outstanding contributions to the development of amateur radio.