Comox Valley Search and Rescue (CVSAR) crews were called into action twice over the weekend, responding to challenging rescues that tested their skills and endurance.
The first incident occurred Saturday afternoon when a woman crashed her mountain bike while riding with family.
CVSAR was tasked with locating, assessing, stabilizing, and transporting her to safety. Medical personnel on scene treated her for a suspected pelvic fracture before she was carried by stretcher to a waiting ambulance.
On Sunday evening, just before 5 p.m., the team was again called out—this time to Rosewall Creek Trail, where a male hiker visiting from Vancouver had fallen near the falls and was unable to walk.
Supported by Campbell River SAR and 49 North Helicopters, an initial attempt at a long-line helicopter rescue was made but had to be aborted due to difficult terrain and fading daylight.
With plan a off the table, CVSAR moved to backup plans.
Arrowsmith SAR joined the effort, and North Shore Rescue deployed a night-hoist team through the Emergency Coordination Centre.
Working together in darkness, rescuers moved the injured man downstream to a safe extraction point. He was hoisted out and flown to Qualicum Airport, where he was transferred to BC Emergency Health Services.
After collecting gear and hiking out, exhausted volunteers returned to Courtenay, wrapping up the mission shortly before 2 a.m. Monday.
