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 Wollongong NYE: Thousands watch dramatic rescue unfold 

Wollongong NYE: Thousands watch dramatic rescue unfold

01 Jan, 2012 09:09 AM
A man suffered serious head injuries in an accident at last night’s New Year’s Eve fireworks in Wollongong.

The 43-year-old tried to dive into the harbour from the top of a breakwall during the 9.30pm display, according to the Ambulance Service of NSW.

However, the man, who was believed to be intoxicated, hit rocks at the bottom of the wall and suffered head injuries.

He had to be freed from the scene by paramedics with the assistance of a helicopter before being transferred to Wollongong Hospital.

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Date: Newest first | Oldest first
Watched the fireworks last night sitting on the sands. Brilliant display. Many thanks for the show.
Posted by Bryan, 1/01/2012 12:16:20 PM, on Illawarra Mercury
I was under the impression that many of the areas frequented by revellers last night were classified "Alcohol Free Zones.?"

It was evident that this was not the case at various locations along the foreshores last night.

I wonder if pro-active and diligent policing would have prevented this incident? Shame as it was evident earlier on in the day that patrols and compliance were under control.

Posted by BAG, 1/01/2012 1:05:29 PM, on Illawarra Mercury
I saw this happen. So sad, I thought the man was dead because when the paramatics carried the man they walked extremely slowly, no hurry. There were so many passed out, intoxicated people on those rocks. I really believe they should close the breakwall on New Years. It's very dangerous. I hope the man didn't suffer any major internal brain injuries.
Posted by EyeWitness, 1/01/2012 2:01:28 PM, on Illawarra Mercury
how about we stop "closing off breakwalls" and wrapping society in cotton wool. those who can't lookout for themselves will soon depart, and we can go back to being a society who uses their heads and thinks about their actions
Posted by m, 1/01/2012 2:51:38 PM, on Illawarra Mercury
We were sitting on these rocks with our 2.5 year old daughter. We seen all the emergency personnel going to the incident not knowing what had happened. I don't think the breakwall should be closed at these events that are meant to be alcohol free due to some people not thinking. Yes we seen intoxicated people walking past us, but as BAG said, maybe this needs closer attention. If we can get our toddler to sit there for an hour without incident, as other families did too, then why ruin the enjoyment of many due to one careless person? I'm sorry the man was injured but no one else was to blame.
Posted by Sheree, 1/01/2012 2:58:23 PM, on Illawarra Mercury
what a genius!
Posted by trevor, 1/01/2012 3:02:46 PM, on Illawarra Mercury
Why close the break wall, one should take responsibility for thier own actions. Lets face it 55 years old and dives into rocks drunk, their is no hope educating the uneducated.
Posted by Realist, 1/01/2012 3:51:06 PM, on Illawarra Mercury
To 'm' - brilliantly said!!!!! I mean it - how absolutely refreshing when someone who makes complete and utter sense comes along!!!!
Posted by Jasmine, 1/01/2012 5:03:15 PM, on Illawarra Mercury
Just a couple of years ago a few young drunks were rescued after suffering serious injuries jumping off the fish market roof.
Posted by Markm, 1/01/2012 6:29:35 PM, on Illawarra Mercury
I think the police do an awesome job at keeping this night and Australia Day at the harbour pretty well controlled. Our family has attended both events for many years now and have never had any problems. Police can't control everything. People are sneaky at alcohol free events and I can assure you that there were plenty of teenagers affected by things un-alcohol related last night. Keep up the good work coppers!
Posted by Blah, 1/01/2012 6:39:21 PM, on Illawarra Mercury
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