The NSW Ambulance’s Alpine Operations fleet has this week been boosted by the arrival of four new state-of-the-art snowmobiles.
The new vehicles, which replace four older models, are vital for reaching patients who are only accessible over snow.
The snowmobiles are used alongside the Kassbohrer, which is a large tracked-snowcat that can travel over difficult snow terrain, with the rear of the vehicle fitted-out as a fully operational ambulance that can transport patients.
“People need ambulances no matter what the conditions – rain, hail or shine – or snow. Travelling or working in the snow doesn’t stop the range of medical needs that patients experience,” said NSW Ambulance Chief Executive, Dr Dominic Morgan.
“With snowmobiles and our other specialised vehicles, the Alpine Operations paramedics at Perisher Ambulance Station can access patients quickly to ensure they receive emergency medical care, no matter where they are.”
The Alpine Operations team also use The Hagglund vehicle, currently leased from the Australian National Antarctic Research Expeditions, as well as 4WD vehicles.
“NSW Ambulance have a wide range of vehicles that can travel over snow and difficult terrain in order to quickly reach patients in need,” said NSW Health Minister, Ryan Park.
“These new snowmobiles are a fantastic addition to the fleet and ensure that our Perisher paramedics have the very best equipment at their disposal so they can respond no matter the snow conditions, and no matter the medical emergency.”
Established in 1986, Perisher Ambulance Station in the NSW Snowy Mountains region has operated during the ski season for nearly 40 years, with paramedics ready to provide emergency care every day of the week.
The seasonal ambulance station operates each winter, with paramedics responding to patients experiencing a medical emergency, as well as major traumatic injuries including spinal injuries, concussions, broken bones and torn ligaments.
The Alpine Operations team work out of Perisher Ambulance Station from the June long weekend until the October long weekend, as well as from Jindabyne Ambulance Station all year round.
The ski season sees large numbers of people visit the region, with additional paramedics sent to both ambulance stations to cover the significant increase in demand.
