Four individuals, including two young children, have been hospitalised following a significant gas explosion at a well-known holiday park in New South Wales. Emergency services were dispatched to the BIG4 Ingenia Holidays park located on Norman Street in Lake Conjola shortly after 7:30 am on Saturday morning, responding to urgent reports of a barbecue explosion.
Emergency Response and Injuries
NSW Ambulance personnel assessed five people at the scene, with four requiring immediate transport to hospital for treatment. Among the injured were two children under the age of five, who sustained minor injuries and were taken to Shoalhaven Memorial Hospital, both reported to be in a stable condition.
Details of the Injured
A man in his 30s suffered facial injuries and was airlifted to Wollongong Hospital, where he remains in a stable condition. A woman in her 30s experienced abdominal injuries and was also transported to Shoalhaven Memorial Hospital for further medical care. A fifth person was assessed at the scene but did not require hospitalisation.
Witness Account of the Explosion
A witness at the scene described the incident to The Australian, stating that the explosion occurred as a family holidaying at the park was preparing breakfast using the barbecues. "I was sitting on the balcony and it was just a huge explosion," the witness recounted. "It looks like they've probably gone to start it. There's been a gas leak and it's just blown up."
Investigation and Aftermath
The explosion took place in the outdoor kitchen area of the holiday park, with Fire and Rescue NSW being contacted for comment on the incident. Authorities are likely to investigate the cause of the gas leak and the subsequent explosion to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
This incident highlights the potential dangers associated with gas appliances in recreational settings, emphasising the importance of regular maintenance and safety checks. The holiday park, a popular destination for families, is now under scrutiny as emergency services and park management assess the damage and ensure the safety of other guests.
