As most grey nomads know all too well, Australia can be a harsh, unforgiving and unpredictable place to travel.
The terrifying drama which played out at Sydney’s Royal National Park over the weekend is yet another reminder that it is Mother Nature that is ultimately calling the shots and that, just because a lot of other people are doing what you are doing, doesn’t make it safe.
There were around 150 people were at the park’s famous but remote Figure 8 rock pool – which is only accessible by a three-kilometre walk – when a rogue wave took them all by surprise.
The huge wall of water crashed over the rock pool, sweeping one woman into the water and leaving many others clinging on for dear life.
Police, Fire and Rescue NSW, park rangers, lifeguards and NSW Ambulance responded to the drama and the 20-year-old woman who hit her head as she was washed into the water was rescued and airlifted to hospital.
Two other women were also winched away from the area by helicopter and taken to hospital. One had a suspected head injuries and the other an injured ankle. All three have now been released from hospital. There were reported to be up to 100 people who suffered minor injuries including grazes and cuts in the carnage.
With hazardous surf conditions prevailing, the National Parks and Wildlife Service has said people should use commonsense and stay off rock platforms.
This a really great location with the rock pools in the shape of number 8 great to swim in and a beautiful scenic area, but the waves can sneak up and wipe you out as I found out many years ago