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    Tourists at Boroka Lookout last year.

Police: Safety first for Grampians holidaymakers

The death of a woman who fell from popular Boroka Lookout in the Grampians earlier this month has prompted police to stress a need for holidaymakers to be ‘acutely’ aware of safety issues.

With people on their way or preparing to travel to regional destinations for the Christmas break, police have also spoken about the domino effect tragic incidents  can have on families, friends and emergency-service workers. 

Police Superintendent Ian Milner said he understood that people were keen to get out and experience the great outdoors after COVID-19 lockdowns.

But he emphasised that it was imperative for everyone to consider safety a priority.



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Mr Milner made the comments while reflecting on the death of a 38-year-old mother-of-two from Craigieburn who fell about 80 metres from the lookout after venturing beyond a safety barrier.

“Safety barriers and warning signs are there for a reason. We want people to return home with amazing and fun-filled memories – not without loved ones,” he said.

“I ask members of our communities across the region that if they have friends or relatives coming to visit or traveling to other places to remind them to be safe.

“Please observe and obey all warning signs. 

“This not only applies to mountain lookouts – we’re talking about all the rivers, creeks, waterways, tracks, deserts and so on. 

“Many of the places people might be visiting as they explore the regions aren’t signposted – so general care and attention is required. 

“We are in a regional area that is expansive with many different hazards and safety concerns.”

Mr Milner said serious incidents usually presented challenging circumstances for emergency respondents.

“Everyone must remember that when something goes wrong that might lead to a tragedy, it’s not just people directly involved who are affected. These types of incidents impact heavily on our emergency-service personnel,” he said.

“As well as responding, there can be the added expectation on our members to deliver bad news – and no one wants to be in the position. We’re talking about the State Emergency Service, Ambulance Victoria and Fire Rescue Victoria as well as Victoria Police. 

“These aren’t just agencies, they are people who go home to their families.”

RELATED: Police warning: Be safe or be nabbed!

 

The entire December 23, 2020 edition of The Weekly Advertiser is available online. READ IT HERE!

The entire December 23, 2020 edition of AgLife is available online. READ IT HERE!