Volunteers rescue missing man in multi-agency search

Volunteers rescue missing man in multi-agency search

11/01/2023, 10:30 AM

VICSES volunteers from Barwon South West and Grampians Regions responded to a Request for Assistance (RFA) on Monday 9th January 2022 from Victoria Police (VICPOL) to assist in a search for a missing person.

A 76 year-old man had disappeared from a property in Chetwynd, a small town approximately 40 kilometres north of Casterton, on Sunday 8th January.

Volunteers dispatched from VICSES Dartmoor, Dimboola, Edenhope, Geelong, Hamilton, Horsham, Kaniva, and Nhill Units, alongside volunteers from Bush Search and Rescue Victoria (BSAR), to undertake the search.

VICSES Hamilton Unit members were called in to provide further support early Monday, providing six members in two four-wheel drive vehicles.

The lost man, who suffers from dementia, had last been sighted in the area Sunday lunchtime.

Under guidance from VICPOL Search and Rescue Specialists, VICSES & BSAR crews combed the area, finally locating the man in the late evening.

VICPOL, VICSES & BSAR crews assisted Ambulance Victoria (AV) with a carry out from his location, to a waiting ambulance where he was assessed by paramedics.

Quotes attributable to VICSES Hamilton Unit, Deputy Controller, John McKenzie:

“Hamilton members were paged to support a search operation at around 7:30am on 9th January, and dispatched six members in two four-wheel drive vehicles.”

“Our members worked alongside neighbouring units as well as volunteers from Bush Search and Rescue Victoria and VICPOL. The positive outcome highlighted the great collaboration and teamwork amongst the agencies involved.”

“VICSES Hamilton Unit volunteers have been called to assist in a number of searches recently. We wish to remind people if you are planning on bush waking/hiking or camping, we ask that you do the basics to protect yourself.”