“I never thought I’d need a rescue helicopter on my own property. But on that day… I needed it more than anything.”
For Springsure grazier and trail runner Pete Hamilton, February 28th 2024 began as a routine day on the land. But while preparing to empty a grain silo, everything changed in an instant. The structure gave way without warning, collapsing and burying him under 50 tonnes of wheat.
“I remember the roar, then silence, and the weight. I couldn’t move. Only my face was above the grain.”
His wife Michelle heard his screams from the house and ran to find him partially buried. She raised the alarm and neighbours arrived quickly with shovels, working tirelessly to reach him. While the local community sprang into action, CapRescue’s Rescue300 helicopter was tasked to respond. Some initial confusion over the property’s location caused delays—but Michelle helped guide the crew in, and when Rescue300 arrived, it was a critical turning point.
“The moment they landed, I knew I had a chance,” Pete said. “They were calm, professional, and knew exactly what to do.”
Pete was flown to Rockhampton Hospital, then transferred to Brisbane for weeks of specialist care. He had multiple surgeries to repair crushed and broken bones, and severed tendons. Recovery has been long, painful, and ongoing—but Pete knows how close he came to not making it. “I’ve got screws, plates, and scars… but thanks to CapRescue, I’m still here.”
The experience struck a particular chord with the organisers of the Springsure Mountain Challenge. Pete isn’t just known in the community—he’s been part of the Mountain Challenge as a participant, helping raise money for CapRescue over the years.
“It really hit home for all of us,” said event organiser Mindi Durdin. “Pete has been one of the people running to raise funds for this service—and then, out of the blue, he’s the one who needed the rescue. It was a powerful reminder of why we do what we do.”
Michelle hopes their experience encourages other rural families to be prepared. “If you live on a property, ask yourself: if a chopper needed to land here, where would it go? Thinking about it is one thing—actually having a plan in place is another. Until it happens to you, it’s not something most people ever consider.”
“I’m just lucky to still be here,” Pete reflects. “Rescue300 turned up when I needed them most. Without that flight, I wouldn’t be here talking to you today.”