Snake Bites in Spring: Staying Safe Across Melbourne’s North-West
Spring has arrived, and so have the snakes. As the weather warms up across Melbourne’s north-west, snakes begin to wake from their winter hibernation. Locals in Tullamarine, Keilor, Sunbury, Melton, Gisborne, Werribee, and Caroline Springs are already reporting sightings around creeks, walking trails, and nature reserves.
While snakes are generally shy and avoid people, they can strike if surprised or cornered. Knowing how to prevent bites and respond safely can make all the difference.
Why Snakes Are Active In The North-West
As temperatures rise, snakes become more active while searching for food and mates. In the north-western corridor of Melbourne, common species include the Eastern Brown Snake, Tiger Snake, and Red-Bellied Black Snake — all venomous and found around bushland, rivers, and open grasslands.
You are most likely to spot snakes around:
- Brimbank Park along the Maribyrnong River in Keilor
- Woodlands Historic Park near Tullamarine, close to the airport and Moonee Ponds Creek Trail
- Toolern Creek in Melton and nearby walking paths
- Jacksons Creek in Sunbury and Riddells Creek
- Lerderderg Gorge and Werribee River areas
- Macedon Ranges bushland around Gisborne and Riddells Creek
These are some of the most beautiful areas in Melbourne’s north-west — but they are also prime snake habitats.
How to Avoid Snake Encounters
A few simple habits can reduce the risk of crossing paths with a snake:
- Keep grass and garden areas short and tidy.
- Store firewood and building materials away from the house.
- Wear long pants and closed shoes when gardening or walking near creeks.
- Stay on clear, open paths when walking dogs or hiking.
- Supervise children closely near water, bushland, and tall grass.
If you do see a snake, stay calm and move away slowly. Never try to catch or kill it. This is not only dangerous but also illegal under Victorian law. Contact a licensed snake catcher or your local council if one is on your property.
https://www.snakehunter.com.au/ – Melbourne Based
What To Do If Someone Is Bitten
If a snake bite occurs, stay calm and act quickly.
1. Call Triple Zero (000)
Always treat a bite as life-threatening. Do not attempt to identify or catch the snake — hospitals can determine the species using venom detection kits.
2. Keep the person still and calm
Movement spreads venom more quickly. Have the person lie down and keep the bitten limb as still as possible.
3. Apply a pressure immobilisation bandage
- Start with a broad bandage over the bite, then wrap the entire limb firmly from fingers or toes upward.
- Apply evenly, not tightly.
- Use a splint to keep the limb still and mark the bite site on the bandage.
4. Do not wash or cut the bite area
Venom traces on the skin help medical staff identify the snake.
5. Stay with the person until help arrives
Monitor breathing and consciousness. If the person becomes unresponsive or stops breathing, begin CPR immediately.
Recognising Snake Bite Symptoms
Symptoms can develop quickly or over several hours. Common signs include:
- Pain or swelling at the bite site
- Nausea or vomiting
- Blurred vision or headache
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Drowsiness, collapse, or paralysis
If any of these symptoms occur, call Triple Zero (000) immediately and follow the operator’s instructions.
Snake Safety for Pet Owners
Snake bites are also a serious risk for pets, especially dogs that explore grasslands and creek paths. Around Tullamarine, Keilor, Melton, and Sunbury, local vets see a spike in snake bite cases every spring.
If your pet is bitten:
- Keep them as still as possible.
- Carry them to the car rather than letting them walk.
- Get to the nearest vet straight away and call ahead if possible.
Emergency vets in Werribee, Melton, and Caroline Springs regularly treat snake-bitten pets during spring and summer.
AB First Aid: Supporting Safety in Our Local Communities
At AB First Aid, we proudly support local schools, childcare centres, and workplaces across Melbourne’s north-west — including Keilor, Sunbury, Tullamarine, and Gisborne — with practical, hands-on training for outdoor and emergency first aid.
Our nationally recognised training covers:
- How to apply a pressure immobilisation bandage correctly
- How to recognise and manage snake bites
- How to perform CPR if breathing stops
- How to remain calm and take control in emergencies
We also offer onsite training for community organisations, schools, and construction teams working near open spaces like Brimbank Park, Woodlands Park, and Toolern Creek.
Practical Checklist for Spring Safety
Before heading outdoors this spring, make sure you can answer “yes” to these:
- Do you have a stocked first aid kit at home and in your car?
- Do you know how to apply a pressure immobilisation bandage?
- Is your CPR and first aid training current?
- Do you know which local hospital or vet handles snake bites?
- Have you talked to your family about what to do if they see a snake?
If not, this is the perfect time to refresh your first aid skills.
References & Resources
- Better Health Channel – Snake Bites
- Ambulance Victoria – First Aid for Snake Bites
- Department of Health Victoria – Venomous Bites and Stings
- Parks Victoria – Local Park Alerts
Closing Call-to-Action
Spring in Melbourne’s north-west is the perfect time to explore — from Brimbank Park to Woodlands Historic Park and beyond. With a little knowledge and the right first aid training, you can enjoy the outdoors safely and confidently.
If your school, workplace, or community group in Keilor, Tullamarine, Melton, Gisborne, or Sunbury needs practical first aid training, contact AB First Aid. We’ll help your team stay ready for emergencies this spring and beyond.
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