Emergency service exercise turns to real search and rescue mission

Emergency services practising search and rescue operations were brought back to reality when two women went missing on a mountain nearby.

Two hikers who went missing on a mountain made a lucky escape when emergency services practising search and rescue missions nearby came to the rescue.

On Saturday, March 25, Queensland Police alongside Polair, the dog squad, SES and other emergency services were out on a search and rescue exercise at Mt Barney, about 120km south of Brisbane, when a real emergency occurred.

About 12.15pm, with the exercise under way, emergency services were alerted to two hikers who had become lost at a nearby mountain.

SES volunteers were quickly redirected to Mount Maroon where two women had gone missing during a hike.

They were located but due to the weather conditions, the group set up camp for the night.

A Search and Rescue Exercise at Mount Barney quickly turned into reality for emergency services personnel, after a search was launched nearby for missing hikers mid-exercise. Vision in link: https://t.co/CpCt3wwVo3pic.twitter.com/2Cmk932Q43

— Queensland Police (@QldPolice) March 31, 2023

The following morning, the group were guided to safety and all made it home safe and well.

Logan Western Patrol Group Inspector Tracey Dale said emergency services’ ability to work together was critical to the safe rescues.

“I applaud the SES volunteers and local officers who jumped into action mid-exercise, putting themselves at risk to ensure these lost hikers made it to safety,” she said.

Queensland Police is using the opportunity to remind anyone planning a hike, cycle or travel in the outdoors to be prepared.

“Always research weather conditions and the location, follow established tracks, heed any warnings and signage, and ensure you’ve packed essentials, including phone, water, food, medical supplies and medications,” Inspector Dale said.

Originally published as Emergency service exercise turns to real search and rescue mission