A Central Coast man has been airlifted to hospital in a stable condition after being bitten by a highly venomous brown snake while mowing his lawn on Friday afternoon.
Emergency Helicopter Response to Rural Property
The incident occurred at a rural property in Yarramalong, approximately 20 minutes from Wyong. Due to the remote location, NSW Ambulance paramedics called in the rescue helicopter to reach the patient.
The helicopter's critical care medical team assessed the man at the scene before flying him to Newcastle's John Hunter Hospital, arriving just after 2:15 pm. A NSW Ambulance spokesperson confirmed the patient was in a stable condition following the emergency response.
Experts Warn of Busy Snake Season Ahead
The alarming incident comes as conservationists and professional snake catchers warn residents across the Hunter and Central Coast to expect an increasingly active snake season. Bronte Hillen, a local snake catcher, told the Newcastle Herald that recent rainfall followed by intensifying hot weather has created ideal conditions for snake activity.
"We are seeing so many new developments going in, so houses are going up all the time," Ms Hillen explained. "This means snakes are losing their places to go." She reported that snake catchers were already receiving a high volume of callouts last month, indicating an early and busy season.
What to Do If You Encounter a Snake
With urban development expanding into bushland, interactions between humans and snakes are becoming more frequent. Ms Hillen offered clear advice for residents who spot a snake on their property.
Key steps include:
- Immediately bring children and pets inside.
- Keep aware of the snake's location from a safe distance.
- Contact a licensed wildlife rescue service for assistance.
"Stay calm and remember snakes don't want to be around you at all. They are usually very shy and timid," Ms Hillen advised. "That snake might just move on... You don't always need a catcher to come out, especially in breeding season when they are looking for a mate."
For injured, sick, or distressed native animals, the public is urged to contact the Hunter Wildlife Rescue 24-hour line on 0418 628 483, operated by WIRES volunteers.
