“I was thrown from my horse and he stepped on my ribs. I knew I needed help—fast.”
For Clarke Creek local Elizabeth Hill, March 20th 2018 is a day she’ll never forget. What started as just another afternoon working on her property turned serious in an instant when she was thrown from her horse—and then trampled.
“He’d thrown me and stepped right on my ribs. I knew it wasn’t good.”
The Queensland Ambulance Service arrived by road from Marlborough, but it soon became clear she’d need more urgent care. Within minutes, the Rescue300 helicopter arrived—bringing a critical care paramedic and doctor straight to her side.
“They stabilised me on the property and flew me straight to Rockhampton Hospital where I spent five days in ICU.”
Elizabeth had a chest tube inserted in the emergency department and underwent further treatment for suspected internal injuries. Thankfully, she made a full recovery.
“All I’ve got now is a small scar. I know it could have been so much worse.”
Looking back, she’s deeply grateful for the speed and skill of the aeromedical crew who arrived that day.
“It’s incredibly reassuring knowing CapRescue is there when something goes wrong. We’re a long way from a hospital out here—so having help at hand like that is just essential.”
The ability of Rescue300 to land directly at Clarkwood—Elizabeth’s property, located 150 km northwest of Rockhampton—highlights just how important it is to have that kind of aircraft available for emergencies in remote areas.
Elizabeth’s connection to CapRescue didn’t end with her recovery. She’s a dedicated community supporter, volunteering as treasurer of her local campdraft association—which proudly donates to both CapRescue and the Mackay helicopter service.
“I know first-hand what a difference that helicopter makes. It’s why I keep supporting it, and why I’ll keep encouraging others to do the same.”