Campers enjoying the Easter long weekend at a popular Victorian site were forced to flee for their lives as a sudden and violent flash flood turned their holiday into a terrifying fight for survival.
Holiday Turns to Horror in Minutes
The incident unfolded at the Jamieson Creek campground in Wye River, approximately 40 kilometres from Geelong, on Saturday evening, March 30. What began as a typical camping trip quickly descended into chaos when a localised downpour caused the nearby creek to surge without warning.
Witnesses described a terrifying scene as "unbelievable" floodwaters rushed through the campground, sweeping tents, camping gear, and vehicles away in the powerful current. The force of the water was so intense that several campers were forced to climb trees to escape the rising torrent.
Dramatic Rescue Operation Launched
Emergency services responded swiftly to multiple distress calls. A significant rescue operation was launched involving Victoria Police, the Country Fire Authority (CFA), and the State Emergency Service (SES).
Authorities confirmed that all campers were accounted for and no serious injuries were reported, a remarkable outcome given the severity of the event. The rescue effort saw emergency personnel navigating hazardous conditions to ensure everyone was safely evacuated from the dangerous situation.
One camper, speaking to the Geelong Advertiser, recounted the sheer speed of the disaster. "It was unbelievable how fast it came up," they said, emphasising the suddenness that left little time to react.
Aftermath and Community Impact
The aftermath of the flash flood left a scene of significant damage and disruption. The campground was left littered with debris, and several vehicles were damaged or displaced by the force of the water.
This event serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of sudden weather changes in regional and bushland areas, especially during popular holiday periods. It highlights the critical importance of checking weather forecasts and being aware of local conditions, even at established campgrounds.
The local community and emergency services have been praised for their rapid response, which was instrumental in preventing a tragedy. Investigations into the exact circumstances and a clean-up of the affected area are ongoing.
