Man shot, explosives found at national park
An accidental shooting followed by the discovery of dumped explosives have kept emergency crews busy in the Onkaparinga Hills, south of Adelaide.
A group of 20 volunteers were hunting feral goats as part of a routine culling operation this morning when the accident occurred.
“We know that at about 8.30am there was an incident where a shooter was accidentally shot,” manager of public lands Mike Williams said.
The shooter reportedly lost his footing, triggering his .223 rifle.
His mate was hit in the ankle.
Special operations paramedics helped get him out in difficult terrain.
The Sporting Shooters Association said this is the first accidental shooting since its members became involved in the culling program, more than 20 years ago.
“We don’t want any accident, and I think our track record proves that,” David Handyside from the association said.
“Our volunteers are highly trained people that go through enormous protocols before they go out into the field.”
Safework SA is investigating, and goat culling has been suspended pending the outcome.
Just 200 metres from the scene, the chance discovery of explosives in a bush also called for tight protocol.
“Like six sticks of salami – red in colour – with ‘explosives’ written on them,” roadside worker Tony Patterson said.
The bomb squad removed them safely.
Police believe they were taken from a nearby quarry.
