Three men have been dramatically rescued by helicopter after becoming trapped by rapidly rising floodwaters in North Queensland. The trio was left stranded on a remote track near Townsville, prompting a major emergency response.
Dramatic Helicopter Rescue in Remote Location
The incident unfolded on Tuesday, when the three men found their vehicle immobilised by floodwaters on a track at Bambaroo, near Ingham. With water levels rising quickly and cutting off any escape route, the situation became critical. Queensland Police were alerted to the men's plight and immediately coordinated a rescue mission.
The rescue operation was handed over to the RACQ CQ Rescue helicopter crew based in Townsville. The highly skilled crew flew to the isolated location, navigating challenging conditions. Upon arrival, they found the men safe but completely surrounded by water, with no way to drive or walk out.
Swift Action by Emergency Crews
The rescue helicopter crew executed a precise winch operation to extract the three individuals from the dangerous situation. All three men were successfully winched aboard the helicopter. They were then flown to safety and transported to the Townsville University Hospital for assessment as a precautionary measure.
Fortunately, reports indicate that the men did not sustain any serious injuries during their ordeal. The successful outcome is a testament to the swift response and coordination between Queensland Police and the RACQ CQ Rescue service.
A Stark Reminder of Wet Season Dangers
This incident serves as a powerful reminder of the sudden and life-threatening dangers posed by North Queensland's wet season. Floodwaters can rise with astonishing speed, turning familiar roads and tracks into impassable traps. Emergency services are urging all residents and travellers in the region to exercise extreme caution.
Authorities reiterate the crucial safety message: "If it's flooded, forget it." Never attempt to drive, walk, or swim through floodwaters. The depth and current are often deceptive, and water can be contaminated or hide dangerous debris. Always check road conditions and weather warnings before travelling in remote areas during the rainy season.
The rescue near Ingham highlights the vital role played by aerial rescue services in a vast state like Queensland, where remote locations can become inaccessible during severe weather events.
