Fire Rescue Commissioner Gavin Freeman has praised all emergency services personnel involved in a complex rescue in Warrnambool on Tuesday last week (Sep. 24)
Thanks to a joint effort by FRV, Ambulance Victoria, Victoria Police and SES crews, a man was rescued after falling down a 30-metre sand dune cliff at Levy’s Point Coastal Reserve.
The man phoned Triple Zero (000) at 7.53am to report that he had fallen 30 metres to land at the bottom of sand dunes, breaking both legs.
The man was walking three dogs at the time, which had run down the dunes and caused the man to fall.
Emergency services personnel were concerned the dunes were at risk of a landslide, as they were unstable.
The man had fallen next to the ocean, with waves crashing onto him, placing him infurther danger. “This was a potentially volatile situation that required emergency services to work together under significant time pressure,” Commissioner Freeman said. “I congratulate all involved in this incredible rescue.”
FRV Acting ACFO Greg Kinross, one of the personnel who responded, said crews from FRV, Ambulance Victoria and the SES parked their appliances at the closest car park.
They then loaded all equipment into the SES 6-wheel Polaris vehicle, which could drive off-road, driving as close as they could to the patient.
Crews trekked through the sand and coastal scrub, carrying all equipment, until they located the man. Victoria Police had arrived on scene beforehand and moved the man away from the waves.
An Ambulance Victoria helicopter was then deployed, with paramedics loading the man onto a stretcher and transporting him safely to hospital.
“The police led the way, FRV crews carried equipment and looked after the dogs, the SES drove the vehicle and Ambulance Victoria paramedics treated the patient,” ACFO Kinross said.
“Luckily the man had his phone on him, and was a local, so he was able to provide us with accurate information about his location.”
“This was an amazing example of all agencies working together, leading to a positive outcome for the patient.”
“Our thoughts are now with the patient and his family, and we wish him a speedy recovery.”