October 23rd, 2023Foal rescue a success: warning on horsing around

Responding to a callout in recent days, CFA crews were able to rescue a foal that had gotten itself stuck in a hole.

On Saturday (14, October 2023) a rare one week old Icelandic foal was safely reunited with its mother thanks to the efforts of Arthurs Creek & Strathewen CFA Large Animal Rescue Unit alongside members from Doreen Fire Brigade and Panton Hill Fire Brigade.

The owner found the prized foal stuck in a hole within a dam wall and quickly contacted her neighbour, Lachie Bakewell, a first lieutenant at Arthurs Creek Fire Brigade who notified the rest of his brigade to assist.

“When we arrived, we found the foal completely stuck in a hole and couldn’t reach its head,” said Warren Rees, Arthurs Creek & Strathewen CFA Captain,

“Safety being a priority, the foal was sedated by a vet before we dug into the dam and brought pulled it up with ropes.”

Hypothermic from the event, the 70kg foal was carried to safety by the rescue team and placed in a warm rug.

Much to the relief of the owners, the foal quickly recovered and was reunited with its mother.