RAC Rescue reaches new heights

Emergency rescues from Western Australia’s Stirling Range can be challenging and often rely on the extensive skillset and experience of the RAC Rescue helicopter crew, especially in inclement weather.

In April this year, an avid hiker along with her friends took on the challenge of hiking Bluff Knoll. The weather was fine, and they were prepared with sufficient supplies for two nights. However, along the track, she fell and shattered two bones in her lower leg. Unable to continue along the hike, they called emergency services for help.

Located on the challenging Stirling Ridge Walk Trail between Ellen Peak and Bluff Knoll. The decision was made to dispatch the RAC Rescue helicopter. Once in the search zone, the helicopter crew were quickly able to locate the hiking group on the trail. The patient said she was amazed that within 3 hours of falling she was safely in RAC Rescue hands.

After being hoisted aboard, the hiker was flown to Albany Airport and then transferred by ambulance to Albany Hospital and has since fully recovered from her injury.

This rescue marked the 11,000th mission RAC Rescue has flown since it commenced over 23 years ago. Over the past 12 months, the crews have been called to more than 50 search and rescue missions, some as straightforward as this one, but many others far more complex. A timely reminder to be prepared if you’re planning on exploring the great outdoors.

With decades of experience, the combined RAC Rescue crew of Pilot, Aircrew Officer and Critical Care Paramedics onboard ensure the great outcomes that we see every day across the State, when members of our community need it most.

The RAC Rescue helicopters are funded by the State Government, managed by DFES and sponsored by RAC.