A paraglider competing in the Corryong PG Open event last week had to be winched to safety after becoming stuck in a tree on Mt Mittamatite.
Emergency services were called after reports the paraglider conducted a forced parachute landing about 3pm on Monday February 3rd.
The female pilot became stuck in a 10 metre tree and was unable to free herself due to the height and strong wind.
Local police notified the Victoria Police Search and Rescue (SAR) Squad – which specialises in vertical rescues and members were subsequently flown in from Melbourne by the Air Wing.
Early reports said the woman was suspended from the tree for around an hour and a half but her ordeal actually lasted for more than five hours.
Four SAR members were winched to a nearby location and hiked approximately 300 metres in rugged terrain before reaching the site.
An SAR member climbed the tree and set up a roping system before safely lowering the paraglider to the ground.
The woman was winched onboard the helicopter about 8.40pm and did not require any medical treatment.
Inspector James Dalton, Water Police and Search and Rescue Squads, said “This rescue was complex as we had a paraglider stuck at height, in rugged terrain and on top of that strong wind made it challenging for the air crew.
“Thankfully our highly skilled search and rescue police were able to get there as quickly as possible with assistance from the Air Wing.
“It’s always a great day at work to rescue someone in need.”
This article appeared in the Corryong Courier, 13 February 2025.
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