A mainland tourist’s hiking mishap in remote Tasmania has showcased the state’s emergency response capabilities after multiple agencies came together for a successful bushland rescue.
Irena, six weeks into a two-month caravanning holiday from NSW, broke her fibula and tibia when she slipped on a walking track near Halls Falls in Pyengana.
“My husband rang 000 and a ‘cast of thousands’ turned up,” she said.
The rescue involved Tasmania Police, SES volunteers, paramedics and the rescue helicopter working together in challenging bushland terrain.
Irena was airlifted to the Launceston General Hospital where she underwent surgery the following day.
She spent a week recovering before returning home to NSW.
Despite the ordeal, she expressed overwhelming gratitude for the professional response she received.
“I just wanted to thank all the people involved in my care whilst in Tasmania, from the emergency transport personnel, the health care professionals in both the general and private hospitals in Launceston and the medic on the Spirit of Tasmania,” she said.
Tasmania SES responded to Irena’s thank-you message on social media, saying they were “glad we could be there for you in your hour of need”.
The experience hasn’t put Irena off coming back.
“My husband and I may return to Tasmania to finish touring around your beautiful state,” she said.
