MACALISTER RIVER, VIC. — The Victoria Police Air Wing has rescued four occupants from a four-wheel drive washed away while trying to cross a flooded Glenmaggie River last night.
A Nissan Patrol, with four people on board, attempted to cross the Macalister River at the Burgoyne Track about 8pm.
The river was under a minor flood warning at the time.
During the crossing, the rear of the vehicle began floating, causing the Nissan to face the current and stall.
The Nissan drifted about 25 metres downstream before coming to a stop.
The four sought refuge by climbing onto the roof of the vehicle.
The well-equipped occupants used a satellite phone to call for help, and the Rescue and Coordination Centre (RCC) were notified, dispatching the Air Wing to the coordinates provided.
Officers from the Air Wing flew into action and located the Nissan with four stranded, and very cold occupants, on the roof.
The Air Wing lowered down an officer to rescue the three women and one man, winching them to safety.
The quartet were tall and transported to hospital for assessment – cold, wet and unharmed.
The occupants will recover the Nissan once the river level goes down.
Victoria Police urges motorists to monitor local conditions and remain alert in times of flood warnings, however minor.
Be prepared to act if your situation changes and stay informed by listening to emergency broadcasters and monitoring warnings.
Floodwater is dangerous.
Refrain from driving, walking or riding through floodwater.
