Hosted at Temptation Living and Landscapes on Friday, February 14, the event was an opportunity for members to connect and catch up.
Sparked by two recent snake bite incidents, RBN president Tracie Kyne also used the breakfast as an opportunity to educate attendees on snake bite first-aid and supply them with kits.
Rochester Elmore District Health Service clinical education and staff development officer Charmaine Miller provided guests information at the RBN on snake bite prevention and first-aid.
Some key takeaways to avoid bites include:
- stop and let a snake pass if you see one;
- keep grass short; and
- wear pants, gaiters and enclosed shoes if spending time in a snake-prone area.
Ambulance Victoria reported 129 suspected snake bites from December 1, 2024, to February 18, 2025, with 24 coming from the Loddon Mallee region.
Loddon Mallee regional and clinical operations director Matt McCrohan said the Loddon Mallee region had the third-highest suspected bites across the state, attributable to the dry, warm environment and proximity to waterways.
He highlighted further advice to keep snake bite-free.
“Snakes are more active now that the warm weather has settled in, so it’s important to stay vigilant,” he said.
“Snakes are often drawn to waterways, so staying aware near rivers, creeks and the surrounding long grass or logs can help you avoid a bite.
“A few simple steps, like clearing away woodpiles, rocks and debris and keeping the grass short can help deter snakes from settling near homes.”
If someone is bitten by a snake, it is considered a medical emergency.
The best thing to do is call 000 and the Victoria Poisons Information Centre on 131 126, immobilise the area with bandages, avoid movement and mark the spot of the bite.
Symptoms of snake venom entering the body include dizziness, blurred vision, breathing difficulties, nausea, muscle weakness and paralysis.
Ambulance Victoria tips for snake bites
- Follow DRSABC (Dangers? Responsive? Send for help. Open airway. Check breathing. Start CPR if required);
- call 000 immediately;
- keep the patient still and reassure them;
- apply a pressure immobilisation bandage;
- splint the limb to prevent movement; and
- stay with the patient until paramedics arrive.
“With most Victorian snakes being venomous, a bite can be serious. If there's any chance someone has been bitten, don’t wait — call 000 immediately,” Mr McCrohan said.
“If a snake bite victim becomes unresponsive, you should begin CPR immediately.
“If they are conscious, keep them as still as possible and reassured while waiting for help. Only move them if it’s unsafe to stay where they are.
“Snake bites usually occur on the hands, feet, or limbs. Applying a pressure immobilisation bandage from the top to the bottom of the limb can slow the spread of venom and improve the outcome of treatment.”
REDHS does not have a supply of anti-venom, so it is best to call an ambulance.
If possible, take a photo of the snake, so the species can be identified. Avoid washing the site, as residual venom can also assist medical professionals with identification.
The RBN snake bite kits come equipped with bandages specially designed to immobilise the limb.
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