LARC carries out bush rescue

WHEN a stranded Agnes Water camper had a severe asthma attack, there was only one vehicle that could do the job of getting to them — the Agnes Water LARC.

Angela Clarke of 1770 LARC tours, standing in front of the LARC that was involved in Sunday night’s rescue. . Picture: Scottie Simmonds

WHEN a stranded Agnes Water camper had a severe asthma attack, there was only one vehicle that could do the job of getting to them — the Agnes Water LARC.

The 27-year-old and friends were camping several kilometres up Eurimbulah Creek, which they had accessed in a small tinny, when the man suffered an attack on Sunday night.

The group attempted to return to Agnes Water to get medical attention but tide heights had them stranded.

Gladstone Water Police Sergeant Jeff Barnett received a call about 5.30pm and arranged for the LARC to take two paramedics and a police officer on a rescue mission.

Allan Walters skippered the LARC and said the campers were difficult to find.

“We had the helicopter from Bundaberg (AGL Action Rescue Helicopter) there helping out but they couldn’t land,” Mr Walters said.

“The campers had lit a fire for the helicopter but it was behind mangroves so we couldn’t see it. They were very, very tricky to find.”

The LARC was able to come to the rescue and reached the campers.

The man was transported to land, then airlifted to the Bundaberg Base Hospital by the AGL Action Rescue Helicopter in a stable condition.

“There was a good outcome which is the main thing,” Mr Walters said.

“People do need to consider the costs for emergency services before they do this sort of thing.

“I DON’T mind about my time but those emergency services could be out helping someone else so people should take all their equipment and medication and be responsible.”

Mr Walters said this was not the first time the LARC had been useful during rescue operations.

“We’ve had quite a few rescues towing yachties and stranded vessels,” he said.

Sergeant Barnett said the Mergard family, the owners of the LARC, needed to be thanked for allowing his vehicle to be used on the rescue mission.

“It is very community-minded and spirited. It’s a wonderful asset, and they are very kind for helping out.”

Originally published as LARC carries out bush rescue