Surge in rescue jobs prompts hiking warning for holiday season
This summer, Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) volunteers are urging hikers and bushwalkers to take additional precautions after a recent spike in incidents requiring emergency assistance.
The Lerderderg State Park, Mount Buffalo National Park, Cathedral Ranges National Park, Werribee Gorge, State Park, and the Grampians National Park are among several sites which have kept VICSES volunteers busy since January, prompting several high-profile search or rescue operations across the state.
Since 1 January, VICSES volunteers have been called to assist with an increasing number of calls for help in relation to high angle rescue support, or to assist Ambulance Victoria with patient carry outs.
Last month VICSES Bright Unit volunteers undertook their eighth rescue at Mount Buffalo for the year, due to reports of a climber stuck on a rock face. The crew worked as part of a multi-agency approach to guide the climber to safety and into the care of Ambulance Victoria.
Other spots where our volunteers have frequently been called to rescue hikers include Eurobin Falls and Woolshed Falls in the Northeast, and the You Yangs near Lara.
In the Grampians, volunteers are frequently dispatched to the Cool Chambers, at the base of the Pinnacle track, Bridal Veil Falls, and Mackenzie Falls. Mount Cole State Forest, and Mount Langi Ghiran State Park, are also well-known hotspots, with several would-be bushwalkers becoming injured on their descent.
With adverse weather conditions prevailing across the state in recent weeks, and an expected uptick in tourism during December and January, visitors to the regions are being urged to understand their limitations and avoid placing themselves or volunteer emergency responders at risk.
Each search requires around eight VICSES volunteers in three vehicles, for an average of four hours, amounting to thirty-two hours of volunteer time per rescue.
This does not include the work undertaken by Parks Victoria, Ambulance Victoria, and Victoria Police Search and Rescue personnel.
Parks Victoria urges people to be well prepared and choose the right hike for their abilities and the conditions. It’s important to consider how recent weather might have impacted your planned walking track.
When planning your walk, use trusted sources of information like the Parks Victoria website. Visitor guides on park specific pages have maps and information about walking difficulty and estimated duration, based on the Australian Walking Track Grading System. They also include important and timely updates on park or track closures.
Those electing to hike or bushwalk at any of the hundreds of walking tracks across the state should always consider the degree of difficulty of any walk or hike they undertake and ensure they don’t over-exert themselves.
Packing ample food and water and ensuring it is consumed while undertaking the activity are simple steps which can reduce the risk of an emergency response being required.
Bushwalkers can also mitigate their risk by packing a map and compass or tracking their route through GPS, or by familiarising themselves with emergency markers designed to pinpoint their location in the event an emergency extrication is required.
Other key tips to stay safe on the trail include:
- Choose the right hike - based on your fitness, the time you have available, and what you want to see. Make sure you allow enough time to complete your hike in daylight.
- Plan ahead - Check the weather forecast and let someone know where you are going and when you plan to return. Avoid walking alone.
- Dress and pack appropriately - wear the right clothes for conditions (e.g. sturdy/appropriate footwear, weather-proof jacket), take plenty of food, water and spare clothing, have a fully charged smartphone, torch, local map, and first aid kit.
Hikers, bushwalkers, and those planning to camp are also encouraged to stay informed and monitor emergency warnings through the VicEmergency app, website and hotline (1800 226 226) and listen to emergency broadcasters such as ABC local radio, designated commercial radio stations and TV news stations.
Remember to call 132 00 if you require emergency assistance from VICSES, and Triple Zero (000) in life-threatening emergencies. For more information visit: www.ses.vic.gov.au/plan-and-stay-safe/on-holidays.
You can also check the Parks Victoria website for changes of conditions at www.parks.vic.gov.au/coc-listing.
Quotes attributable to VICSES Bacchus Marsh Unit Controller, Mick Schembri:
“Our volunteers are always committed to the safety of our community and are ready to respond 24/7, but we’d love people to be well prepared and take appropriate precautions.”
“With this summer expected to be hot, have a plan to exit the park if conditions change along the way, even if it means not reaching your destination.”
Quotes attributable to VICSES Bright Unit Deputy Controller, Marcus Warner:
“Last month, we attended our eighth rescue at the Mount Buffalo National Park since the start of January. Slips and falls are quite common but it’s also very easy to get lost, become disorientated or fatigued if you are not adequately prepared. Download the Emergency+ App on your phone and monitor the VicEmergency App for warnings in your area".
“Don’t underestimate the terrain or the weather- the natural environment can be unpredictable, and a bit of planning and foresight can make all the difference. Also ensure you drive to the conditions on your way up the mountain and back, fatigue can be a killer on our roads, especially after a long day in the mountains"
“Ensure you fill the Parks Victoria ‘intentions book’ often available at the car park of your location. This helps emergency services understand the number of people in your party, who you are, where you’re going, and when you might be expected back from your walk or hike.”
Quotes attributable to David Petty, District Manager, Parks Victoria:
“We're urging all hikers and bushwalkers to be extra cautious this summer. Recent weather conditions have made trails more challenging, and we've seen a rise in injury and rescue callouts across the state.”
“Remember, preparation is key. Choose a hike that suits your fitness level, check the weather forecast before you go, and pack essential supplies like food, water, and a first-aid kit. By planning ahead, you can have a safe and enjoyable experience in Victoria's beautiful parks.”