BRAVE and hardworking Rural Fire Service (RFS) volunteers have again served the community, bringing a fire on Tullock Road at Yarranbella under control – but at a personal cost to one of their members.
“NSW Ambulance was called to a property on South Arm Rd, South Arm about 3pm on Monday 21 September to find a man had been struck by a falling tree,” an ambulance service spokesperson told News Of The Area.
“Paramedics treated a man in his 70s at the scene for a head injury as well as chest pain.
“A medical team was winched into the scene to treat the patient before he was driven out by ambulance, then flown to John Hunter Hospital by Westpac Rescue Helicopter.”
The injured man had been helping on containment lines.
His condition has stabilised, according to a John Hunter Hospital spokesperson.
The cause of the fire is under investigation, but there were no suspicious circumstances, according to RFS Superintendent, Chris Wilson.
“Forestry Corporation NSW and RFS had it under control last month, but the fire reignited, possibly due to a dead standing tree falling outside the containment line,” Supt Wilson said.
“Difficult terrain and inaccessible country increased the risk to volunteers.
“We had the wide containment option of a large circle, but the fire was not posing a risk to life or property.
“We utilised heavy plant but had to pull back the containment line.
“The fire was under control the whole time.
“I’m really proud of our work.”
RFS finds it difficult to attract volunteers as members may be called on at any time.
“Working 12-hour shifts, and as many as four or five days in a row, is fatiguing for volunteers,” he said.
“As many are small business owners, the juggle is really tough.
“We welcome new volunteers who are keen and motivated.
“We will give anyone a go.”
Valla RFS volunteer Ella Pade is still in her teens but has been training with the RFS for six years.
Entering under the cadet program and completing her Basic Firefighter Course, she is actively fighting fires, and was at the fire ground during the Tullock Rd blaze.
Asked if she worried about her safety, she replied: “No, it’s about being vigilant and aware – and having a good team around you.”
By Sharon JANE
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