Angler warns drivers about common blunder that could fish thousands of dollars out of pocket

When it comes to the great Australian outdoors, there's nothing quite like packing up the ute, hitting the road, and finding that perfect spot to cast a line and relax.

However, a simple oversight turned one bloke's camping trip into a costly nightmare.


The incident unfolded at a popular fishing spot in Toobeah—a local community known for its love of the outdoors and recreational fishing.

The Yarrilwanna Creek became a haven for anglers chasing the elusive yellow belly fish, and a line of vehicles parked along the creek is a common sight as anglers try their luck.

However, a moment of excitement and forgetfulness had dire consequences for the owner of a new Chevrolet Silverado.


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An angler's fishing trip turned into a catastrophe as officials fished out his submerged ute from Yarrilwanna Creek. Image Credit: Pexels/Tomasz Filipek


After parking his vehicle next to the creek, he neglected one crucial step—engaging the handbrake.

The result? His ute rolled back into the creek, almost entirely submerged.

When two RACQ crew members arrived, the vehicle was almost underwater, with the mud complicating the retrieval efforts.


Local Robbie Hanna witnessed the incident.

'Some bloke went down there, parked next to the creek and didn't put his handbrake on. Before you know it, the car rolled into the creek,' she shared.

'This is a good reminder of the safety aspects of recreational fishing. Always put your vehicle in park.'

Hanna's words were a stark reminder of the importance of safety in even the most routine aspects of our outdoor adventures.

This mishap was a costly lesson for the owner.

Not only did they face the shock of seeing his submerged ute, but the financial repercussions were also significant.


A new Chevrolet Silverado can cost over $150,000.

While insurance may cover some of the damage, the inconvenience and potential increase in premiums may deplete one's savings.

Drivers should always double-check that their vehicle is secure before leaving it, especially on an incline or near water.

Engage the handbrake and ensure your ute is in the 'park' function for automatic transmissions or in the proper gear for manual transmissions.

It's also a reminder to review your insurance policy.

Ensure you're covered for all possible scenarios, especially during adventurous outings.
It's also wise to familiarise yourself with your policy's fine print—knowing what is and isn't covered can save you a lot of grief.

Lastly, make sure to enjoy the great outdoors.

Everyone should enjoy Australia's natural beauty, but it comes with the responsibility to be vigilant and safe.

Whether you're a seasoned camper or a weekend warrior, taking that extra moment to ensure everything is in order can mean the difference between a trip to remember and one to forget.
Key Takeaways

  • An Australian man's new Chevrolet Silverado was submerged in a popular fishing spot after failing to apply the handbrake.
  • The incident occurred at Yarrilwanna Creek, known for large catches of yellow belly fish.
  • Locals emphasised the importance of vehicular safety during recreational activities, with a reminder to always engage the handbrake.
  • The retrieval of the ute was complicated by mud, and the mistake cost a significant sum as the vehicle cost around $150,000.
Have you had a close call like this on your outdoor adventures? Do you have some tips on how to keep your vehicle safe while enjoying nature? Share your stories and advice in the comments below!
 
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