In the Scenic Rim region of Queensland, a brave rescue was performed to save an injured hiker who was stranded on a mountainside in subfreezing temperatures.
The delicate operation today comprised over five helicopters and twelve paramedics fighting through deep forest, rocky terrain, and inclement weather.
A member of the crew went through a thicket of bush and reappeared a short while later carrying the patient.
For a full day, Andres Alduan, 44, was stranded.
While out for a hike with friends yesterday morning, the terrifying ordeal started. Alduan tripped, toppled five metres, and suffered a dislocated shoulder.
Paramedics arrived at lunchtime and found him lying on the ground.
After receiving a call from the Sunshine Coast, the Westpac rescue helicopter swiftly returned.
Normally prepared for surf lifesaving rescues, the crew lacked the necessary medical supplies.
A second helicopter from Lismore flew up at 3.30pm, but it had to take off because its fuel was running low.
The aircraft came back after dusk to try again, but bad weather prevented the rescue from happening.
“It was extremely dangerous for any of the rescuers to see,” Queensland Ambulance Service’s Jason Dutton stated.
Despite the cold and terrible conditions during the night on the mountain, the injured hiker was supported by his friends and paramedics.
At first light, the rescue operation was continued, and the man was brought to the hospital in a stable state.
