PDA

View Full Version : Overberg Fire Chopper unexpected rescue Hermanus - South Africa


Snapshot
23rd Dec 2009, 16:54
The day started on Tuesday morning with an extraction
of a body found on the mountain between Voelklip and Fernkloof the night before!

The Overberg Chopper with support arrived to assist the Fire and
Metro teams who had already ascended the mountain to recover the body and prep
for extraction!

During the lift on the 'long' rope to bring the unfortunate person back to
level ground, a call came alerting the teams of 'another' robbery of hikers
in the Fernkloof Nature Reserve!

The Chopper responded and went to investigate in case of hoax callers
and two Canadians in their late 50's were found, both bloodied, I assume
in certain shock with multiple stab wounds!

Due to the location of the victims, the chopper could not land so returned
to take a team member on the 'long' rope with the stokes basket slung beneath!

Mario Arends from Overberg Fire Station (James Bond) went below the chopper
and was assisted by Riaan Jacobs (Overstrand Fire Chief), Reinard Geldenhuys (Overberg Fire Chief)
and John Eccles (Pilot) in the helicopter!

There were two individual extractions bringing the victims back to where ambulance and support were waiting!

Although originally, it looked very serious, I heard the two were discharged from hospital this morning (Wednesday 23rd)


The effort involved with the two separate sorties was huge!
I believe if the chopper and other resources where not where they were
at the time, the victims situation could have been a lot worse!

I would personally like to commend all those involved in this action
yesterday! In South Africa, there is huge support and a network of
great and fine people who give their time to help others!
It somehow goes a little way to re address the scum that parasite
this beautiful part of the World and screw it up for others!

I have NO idea what these poor people must feel right now, but do know
their horrible and terrifying day could have been a lot worse if it was not
for all involved! Well done!
AB


http://www.avcollect.com/southafrica/fernkloof/ODM_Voelklip_221209_004a.jpg
The body is manouvered to a location suitable for extraction by Fire and Metro Teams



http://www.avcollect.com/southafrica/fernkloof/ODM_Voelklip_221209_034a.jpg
The crew and rescue team make a plan!



http://www.avcollect.com/southafrica/fernkloof/ODM_Voelklip_221209_044a.jpg
Chopper lifts, arrow marks the location



http://www.avcollect.com/southafrica/fernkloof/ODM_Voelklip_221209_052a.jpg
Mario Arends and Joubert Siebrits attached to the rope with the stretcher



http://www.avcollect.com/southafrica/fernkloof/ODM_Voelklip_221209_061a.jpg
enroute to be placed into the location ready for extraction



http://www.avcollect.com/southafrica/fernkloof/ODM_Voelklip_221209_078a.jpg
Riaan Jacobs secures the rope as the chopper sets down to wait!



http://www.avcollect.com/southafrica/fernkloof/ODM_Voelklip_221209_099a.jpg
Extraction from the mountain



http://www.avcollect.com/southafrica/fernkloof/ODM_Voelklip_221209_126a.jpg



http://www.avcollect.com/southafrica/fernkloof/ODM_Voelklip_221209_132a.jpg



http://www.avcollect.com/southafrica/fernkloof/ODM_Voelklip_221209_139a.jpg
The SAPS arrive with news of the robbery, the Overberg Fire chopper
leaves to investigate the area

SEE PART TWO (Can only add 10 images)



Part II of an interesting day in the life of ODM!

http://www.avcollect.com/southafrica/fernkloof/ODM_Voelklip_221209_146a.jpg
The first victim of the assault, a lady mid 50's!!!


http://www.avcollect.com/southafrica/fernkloof/ODM_Voelklip_221209_150a.jpg
as above


http://www.avcollect.com/southafrica/fernkloof/ODM_Voelklip_221209_158a.jpg
Fire and Metro Paramedics assist the lady


http://www.avcollect.com/southafrica/fernkloof/ODM_Voelklip_221209_167a.jpg
Mario prepares to return for the second victim


see below

Snapshot
23rd Dec 2009, 16:56
Part II


http://www.avcollect.com/southafrica/fernkloof/ODM_Voelklip_221209_171a.jpg



http://www.avcollect.com/southafrica/fernkloof/ODM_Voelklip_221209_177a.jpg
A man in his late 50's is brought to safety after an ordeal he shall
never forget!



http://www.avcollect.com/southafrica/fernkloof/ODM_Voelklip_221209_179a.jpg


http://www.avcollect.com/southafrica/fernkloof/ODM_Voelklip_221209_191a.jpg
Another day in paradise!


http://www.avcollect.com/southafrica/fernkloof/ODM_Voelklip_221209_027a.jpg
Mario Arends Senior Fireman Bredasdorp Fire Station


http://www.avcollect.com/southafrica/fernkloof/ODM_Voelklip_221209_028a.jpg
Assistant Fireman Joubert Siebrits Bredasdorp Fire Station



It was as always, a privilege to see you work and equally work alongside you guys!
Well done!

Oh yes, forget to mention, there were noise complaints from the locals!
Make Note to Fire Chief: Must remember to alert everyone and provide ear muffs!
Fly safe everyone
AB

ab33t
23rd Dec 2009, 20:16
Good job everyone. Sorry to hear about the muggings , not good before the start of the World Cup

Nigel Osborn
23rd Dec 2009, 20:53
So much easier with a winch!:ok: