One Australian family’s tranquil Easter long weekend was shattered when a leisurely stroll turned into a nightmare.
A pregnant mother from Victoria was enjoying the holiday with her husband, their two-year-old son, and their border collie when an 800kg tree branch fell without warning, striking her and narrowly missing her young son.
The family’s quick-thinking pet Archie mitigated the incident, which could have been a double tragedy. In what has been described as ‘an incredible split-second’ decision, Archie sprang into action, pushing Harry out of the way and potentially saving his life.
The heroic act, however, came at a cost. The mum, Sally Burls, was seriously injured and required airlifting to Melbourne for urgent medical attention, while the son, Harry, escaped with minor injuries. Archie, too, was severely hurt, suffering a broken hip and leg that necessitated surgery.
The Burls family’s ordeal is a stark reminder of the unpredictable dangers that can occur in everyday life. Jade Lieschke, a friend of the family who set up a GoFundMe page to help with their mounting medical and veterinary bills, shared their story.
‘The Burls family went through something no one could ever prepare for,’ she said. ‘Now [they] are facing months of recovery, medical bills, and expensive vet care for their furry hero. It’s a lot for one family to carry.’
The Australian community’s response to the family’s plight was overwhelming. The fundraising campaign quickly surpassed its $10,000 goal, raising $60,000 to support the Burls during their difficult time.
‘Harry is slowly getting his bounce back, which is wonderful to see,’ Jade updated. ‘Archie is still at the vets, and we’re following their guidance closely. Sally has been an absolute trooper—the medical staff have been amazing, and we’re so grateful for everything they’re doing.’
The Burls family takes each day as it comes, comforted by the outpouring of support. However, their story raises important questions about safety in public spaces and the risks posed by natural elements, such as trees.
The dangers of falling branches, particularly from eucalyptus trees, are well-known in Australia. These trees, sometimes called ‘widow makers’, are notorious for dropping heavy limbs without warning.
This incident follows another close call, when an entire tree crushed a tent at an Aussie campsite. Fortunately, the camper had left for the day, but the event serves as a chilling reminder to always be aware of your surroundings.
When enjoying the great outdoors, assessing the environment for potential hazards is crucial. Camping under large trees, especially eucalypts, can be risky.
It’s essential to look up and around, checking for dead or overhanging branches that could pose a threat.
For our readers who may enjoy walks in the park or camping trips with family, it’s important to stay vigilant. While we can’t predict every danger, we can take steps to minimise risks.
Choose open areas away from large trees for picnics and camping, and always heed any warning signs or advice from local authorities about the stability of trees in the area.
The Burls family’s experience is a harrowing reminder of how quickly a peaceful moment can turn perilous. As they continue to recover, let’s take their story as a lesson in safety and the power of community support in times of need.
Have you ever had a close call with nature on a seemingly safe outing? Share your experiences and tips for staying safe in the comments below. Your story could help others avoid a similar fate.
Also read: How to avoid injury in the garden
