URGENT UPDATE: A man from the Central Coast has been airlifted to the hospital following a serious brown snake bite while mowing his lawn in Yarramalong just before 2:15 PM on Friday afternoon. This alarming incident highlights the dangers of snake interactions as the summer season approaches.
According to a spokesperson from NSW Ambulance, paramedics were quickly dispatched to the rural area, approximately 20 minutes from Wyong, to assist the victim. Due to the remote location, a rescue helicopter was called to transport the man to John Hunter Hospital. Fortunately, he is currently reported to be in stable condition.
As the weather shifts with increased rainfall and rising temperatures, conservationists warn of an active snake season. Snake catcher Bronte Hillen noted that the number of snake-related incidents has surged, with her team already receiving numerous callouts last month. “We are seeing so many new developments going in, so houses are going up all the time,” Hillen explained, emphasizing the growing encounters between snakes and humans.
Residents are urged to remain vigilant as urban expansion continues. If you spot a snake, it’s crucial to keep children and pets indoors and to monitor the animal’s movements. Hillen advises, “Stay calm and remember, snakes don’t want to be around you at all. They are usually very shy and timid.”
In the event of encountering a distressed or sick native animal, residents are encouraged to reach out to Hunter Wildlife Rescue at 0418 628 483, a 24-hour rescue line operated by WIRES volunteers.
As this story develops, stay tuned for updates on the victim’s condition and further advice on how to safely coexist with local wildlife this summer.
