Quiet time for SES

The hardworking local SES volunteers got some downtime over the Christmas/New Year period, after a very busy December.

Despite the big crowds and some wild weather, there were relatively few major incidents.

Crews from San Remo and Phillip Island SES were called to help with a rescue on the George Bass Coastal Walk on December 29.

A woman had slipped and injured her ankle while walking on the track and paramedics needed help to get her to the ambulance.

“The team used our “mule” – a single wheeled stretcher carrier designed for rough terrain – to move the casualty quickly back along the track,” said Phil Friedlos from the Phillip Island Unit.

The following day, the Phillip Island crew were called to a three-car accident on the Phillip Island Road (see separate story).

“The occupants of two of the vehicles were able to get out of their cars, but the driver of one vehicle was trapped in his car, unable to open the doors,” Phil said.

“While the paramedics were monitoring the driver, our crew used hydraulic spreaders to remove the doors on the driver’s side of the car, and free the driver.”

The team then had a few days of well-earned rest before being called out on January 3 to deal with a fallen tree in Cowes, after overnight rain and wind.

A large tree had brought down the power lines to a house and was blocking the driveway.

“Once Ausnet had disconnected the power, the crew worked to clear the driveway and restore access for the homeowner,” said Phil.

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