EMERGENCY services were called to extract an injured motorbike rider from the Black Range State Forest during rainy conditions around 1.30pm on Monday 2 November. Alexandra SES were supported by rope crews from Marysville SES, as well as Wandin, Yea, Alexandra, Monbulk, Limestone and Whanregarwen CFA brigades, Ambulance Victoria and Victoria Police. Two SES members were able to make access to the patient on foot, who was some 2km into the bush, alongside Ambulance Victoria, while the rest of the multi-agency crews prepared equipment and made their way in. The patient was extracted by stretcher using ropes, the wheeled carrier, and a 4WD for the last section. It was a very technical rescue in difficult country, but the multi-agencies prevailed. Marysville SES extended their thanks to the patient and the family and friends for their patience and good humour during the long rescue, and best wishes for a speedy recovery.
