Rutherford Ambulance Rescue Services

Ms JENNY AITCHISON (Maitland—Minister for Regional Transport and Roads)—Thank you to our first responders. On the morning of October 12, Matilda Campbell went for a bushwalk with a friend. When she dropped a mobile phone and tried to retrieve it, Matilda slipped and ended up wedged between two boulders. The image of Matilda's feet protruding from between the rocks went viral after the event. A rescue team was quickly formed, comprising of the Volunteer Rescue Association, the Rural Fire Service, NSW Police Rescue and specialist rescue paramedics from the Rutherford Ambulance Station, including Peter Watts and Nicole Priest. It was a seven-hour rescue effort unlike any Peter and Nicole had confronted in their careers. After several hours, Peter was able to squeeze through a gap 'no wider than his chest' in order to reach Matilda. Matilda was able to be freed with only minor scratching and bruises and this is testament to the professionalism and care shown by the entire rescue team. Thank you to all our first responders, our Maitland community appreciates your tireless dedication and professionalism.