Beacon Search

The Palmerston North based Rescue Helicopter was dispatched to the Ruahine Ranges near Iron Gate hut by the Rescue Coordination Center for a beacon search on Sunday morning.

A group of trampers had activated their beacon after one member had slipped and injured his leg and was unable to walk out. The party was located after searching the track they were on and a St John Advanced paramedic was lowered on the new 600 lb rescue hoist to assist the patient.

He was stabilised and then recovered into the helicopter and airlifted to Palmerston North Hospital for treatment. The helicopter was dispatched due to the remote location of the beacon source and the need for a search in dense bush and rugged terrain.

Philips Search and Rescue Trust is a charitable organisation, operating rescue helicopters throughout the Central North Island. Philips Search and Rescue Trust relies on support from principal sponsors and community contributions. The Palmerston North Rescue Helicopter service has been made possible through the generosity of community donations.

This crucial financial support ensures our rescue helicopters can continue to bring life-saving equipment, rescue personnel and trauma-trained medics directly to the patient.

ends

© Scoop Media