General News
17 July, 2023
Air ambulance team rescues injured teen
A young woman in her late teens was rescued and airlifted near the Pinnacle Walking Track in Grampians on Saturday afternoon. State Emergency Service units from Stawell and Ararat were called around mid-day to assist Ambulance Victoria and Victori...
A young woman in her late teens was rescued and airlifted near the Pinnacle Walking Track in Grampians on Saturday afternoon.
State Emergency Service units from Stawell and Ararat were called around mid-day to assist Ambulance Victoria and Victoria Police with an injured hiker just below the Pinnacle.
The woman sustained a lower-body injury and was winched by the Helicopter Emergency Medical Service.
VICSES Grampians duty officer Michael Boerner said the rescue operation involved 10 VICSES volunteers and additional emergency services workers.
"VICSES Ararat and Stawell Unit volunteers responded to a request for assistance at 11:38am on the Pinnacle walking track," he said.
"The multi-agency team, including Victoria Police and Ambulance Victoria paramedics, travelled over a dirt track to a location near the injured hiker and dispatched a walking crew, including 10 VICSES volunteers.
"Once the injured hiker had been located, the volunteers worked with Victoria Police and air ambulance paramedics to extricate and winch the hiker."
The woman was airlifted and transported by road ambulance to Stawell Regional Health in stable condition.
The emergency services cleared the scene just after 3pm.
Parks Victoria area chief ranger Stuart Lardner urged people to ensure they’re best prepared for their next trek.
“Victoria’s dramatic and diverse landscape provides the perfect excuse to get outdoors," he said.
"However, winter can bring additional challenges to visitors looking to stay active in our parks and reserves.
“The natural environment can be unpredictable, and when people get into difficulty it’s often because they lack experience or underestimate the conditions, the weather, or what they need to take with them.
“Before planning your next hike, know your fitness limits before choosing a long or hard route. Check the weather and safety rating before you leave and notify a loved one of where you’ll be.
“Additionally, dress appropriately for the environment you’ll be in and pack the key safety essentials; at least four litres of water for a day hike, extra food and a first aid kit.
"Start your trip with a fully charged smartphone and pack a waterproof map for parks with limited reception.”