PLEASE NOTE: Vision and images of the rescue are available via hightail – https://spaces.hightail.com/receive/aw4sWlqwR5
Three people have been rescued by a police officer after they became trapped in their car by floodwaters in the state's Hunter region today.
About 9.30am (Thursday 22 September 2022), police received information that three people were trapped in a vehicle at a flooded causeway along Lyons Road, Bingleburra, west of Dungog.
A short time later, a senior constable attached to Port Stephens-Hunter Police District located the vehicle submerged about five metres from dry land.
Using a rope as a safety line, the senior constable entered the floodwater and made his way to the vehicle.
With the assistance of a 51-year-old woman – who was holding onto the outside of the vehicle – the senior constable pulled a four-year-old boy through the window of the car and brought him safely to land.
The senior constable re-entered the water to collect the 51-year-old woman, who's foot had become trapped by a rock, and brought her safely to land.
In order to rescue a 44-year-woman still inside the car, the officer used a winch attached to his police vehicle to stabilise the submerged car.
He re-entered the flood waters for a third time to safely assist her out.
The two women and boy were uninjured and were treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics for shock.
The local command is now looking at recommending the officer involved to be recognised for his efforts and bravery.
As wet weather continues across the state, police are reminding all those in flood-affected or flood-prone areas to not drive through flood waters; if it's flooded, forget it.
Members of the public are advised to avoid all non-essential travel, stay informed and be ready to respond to any evacuation orders.
Those seeking emergency assistance during a flood or storm should call the NSW State Emergency Service on 132 500 or visit their website for more information: www.ses.nsw.gov.au.
For the latest weather warnings, please visit the Bureau of Meteorology: http://www.bom.gov.au/.
For the latest road closures, please visit: www.livetraffic.com.au.
In all life-threatening situations and emergencies, the public are advised to contact Triple Zero (000).
