Hero kids' incredible journey to save parents as town mourns much-loved dad
The heroic actions of two young children saved the life of their step-mother after a terrible accident but sadly it was too late to save their beloved dad.
Damian Tattersall, 29, was installing a water pump at the bottom of a 30m well when it is believed he was overcome with carbon monoxide fumes on Saturday afternoon.
The tragedy happened on a property at Weilmoringle, north-east of Bourke, over 200km west of Lightning Ridge in remote NSW where there is no mobile phone reception.
Damian Tattersall. Photo: Seven News
The accident took place in rural NSW on the border of Queensland. Photo: Seven News
His partner, Megan Kelly, began climbing a rope ladder to where he was trapped but fell when the ladder broke and became trapped herself.
Their children, 13-year-old Mikaela and 11-year-old Tristan were left to organise a rescue against incredible odds.
The children drove 35km - in a desperate bid to save their parents - to the nearest public road and were able to flag down a neighbour.
The neighbour called for help then returned to the well with a portable air compressor that he pumped into the shaft, possibly saving Ms Kelly's life.
Brewarrina resident Jess Gibson said: "They're skilled kids. They know what they're doing, they've got a good head on their shoulders and they were taught well."
Julie Brown, a resident, added: "We're just devastated, the whole town is just in shock."
Tributes flowed on social media for Mr Tattersall, Emma Brooke wrote: "Your dad is very loved by everyone who met him," said one.
But the most heart-wrenching came from daughter Mikaela: "Why? I can't believe this. I don't know what to do. Daddy I need you," she wrote.
Ms Kelly was not rescued until 1.15am, almost eight hours after the accident, by an ambulance team supported by local police, fire brigade and the SES.
The delay caused by sheer distance, isolation and lack of communication.
The well that Mr Tattersall died in. Photo: Seven News
The children's mother was airlifted and taken to Orange Base hospital and may be suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning. Photo: Supplied
Residents have spoken of their shock after the tragedy. Photo: 7 News
Authorities confirmed the father died at the scene and their mother was flown to Orange Base Hospital and was in a serious condition suffering from possible carbon monoxide poisoning.
Ms Kelly has been allowed to go home.
Police said they are not treating the incident as suspicious and a report is now being prepared for the coroner.
Superintendent Stewart said that if the children had not discovered their step-mother there may have been a chance she would not have survived
"I can only say how proud their mother would be of them and her family."
News break – December 7
