Tragedy strikes at Queensland childcare centre after fatal snake bite

The man was doing a favour for a relative at the childcare centre when it went horribly wrong.

Jerromy Brookes, a beloved husband, father and grandfather from Deeragun, North Queensland, tragically lost his life while responding to a call from a relative to remove a suspected Eastern Brown Snake from a childcare centre.

Despite lacking formal qualifications as a snake handler, Mr Brookes courageously took on the task, driven by his instinct to safeguard others.

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A fatal turn of events

Although her was able to capture the snake, secure it in a bag and drive home, during his attempt to handle it, Mr Brookes sustained multiple bites on his hand and arm. 

He soon began feeling ill eventually leading to cardiac arrest. 

Despite desperate attempts by his wife to revive him through CPR and the swift response of paramedics, Mr Brookes could not be saved, leaving behind a devastated family and community.

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A tragic passing

Paula Marten, acting district director of the Queensland Ambulance Service, expressed the community's shock and sadness over Mr Brookes' tragic passing. 

While snake bites are not uncommon in Queensland, fatalities are rare.

"Patient resuscitation measures were commenced by our crew, and (he was) transported, but unfortunately, they were unsuccessful," Marten said.

"When you’re bitten by a snake and you’re not aware of snakes, treat them as if they are venomous. It’s really important that you stay calm and keep the person calm."

As the first recorded snake bite fatality in Australia this year, Mr Brookes' death has acted as a reminder of the dangers of trying to handle venomous snakes without proper training.

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Jerromy Brookes died on Tuesday afternoon after being bitten by a suspected Brown Snake. Source: Facebook

Where do Brown Snakes live?

Brown Snakes, particularly the eastern brown variety, are found across various Australian landscapes, from bustling cities to remote bushlands. 

They thrive in a variety of environments, including grasslands, woodlands, scrublands, and even suburban backyards. 

In rural areas, you’ll find them close to water sources such as rivers, creeks, and dams or on the hunt for shelter in natural debris like logs, rocks, and leaf litter, as well as man-made structures like sheds and piles of rubble.

In more urban spaces, Brown Snakes can be spotted in parks, golf courses, and vacant lots. 

Their remarkable adaptability to diverse habitats means encounters with Brown Snakes are possible across Australia. 

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What to do if you see a Brown Snake

Encounters with brown snakes, particularly the highly venomous eastern brown, are not uncommon in Australia. 

If you come across one, it's crucial to remain calm and take the following steps:

Keep your distance, as Brown Snakes are known for their aggressive behaviour when provoked. Back away slowly and give the snake plenty of space.

Do not attempt to capture or kill a brown snake. Trying to handle or kill a Brown Snake increases the risk of being bitten. 

Call for help by contacting a professional snake catcher or wildlife service to remove the snake from the area safely. 

Avoid attempting to handle the snake yourself, as this can lead to further injury or fatalities.

If a Brown Snake bites someone, it's essential to act quickly. To slow the spread of venom, keep the victim as calm and still as possible. Apply a pressure bandage to the bite site and immobilise the affected limb.

Call emergency services immediately or transport the victim to the nearest hospital for medical treatment. 

Brown snake venom can be lethal if left untreated, so prompt medical attention is crucial.

Originally published as Tragedy strikes at Queensland childcare centre after fatal snake bite