A potentially life-threatening situation unfolded at the mouth of the Burdekin River on the afternoon of Tuesday, 2 December when a woman and five very young children were stranded on a sandbar during a rapidly rising high tide. Water Police, who initially responded to the call, described the situation as extremely dangerous, with the tide swiftly reaching 3.3 metres.
The task was passed to the Rita Island SES, who were on scene within minutes to help complete the rescue after self recovery efforts were already underway.
The woman involved, a Burdekin local, broke down in tears when recalling the terrifying experience and expressed deep gratitude to everyone involved in the rescue, says Local Controller for the Burdekin SES Warren Francis.
Francis gave a special congratulations go to Deb Calligaro, who used her local knowledge to organise resources quickly and efficiently, as well as SES members Glenn Searle, Ben Barb, Chris Hodder and Russell Young, who worked alongside general duties police to bring the family to safety.
"I was very proud of our team's efforts," said Francis. "It should instil a lot of confidence in our community that we have such an organised group of volunteers who commit their time and effort into making their community safer."
Local authorities praised the professionalism and speed of the SES response, which ensured the safety of all six individuals.
Local authorities praised the professionalism and speed of the SES response, which ensured the safety of all six individuals. Photo supplied
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