Dave Stejskal, affectionately known as 'Czech Dave' in Auckland tree climbing circles, is recovering in Auckland hospital following a very close shave indeed with the pointy end of a chainsaw.
Dave's day started as routine, with a relatively small Pittosporum removal in a Blockhouse Bay park. The tree had entwined itself into a chain-link fence so Dave was planning to be delicate with his chainsaw.
By the time the chainsaw blade released itself from the fence, the saw was up-and-over, grazing past Dave's face, coming to rest on his shoulder, takinga piece of bone with it as the blade spun down. It was a stroke of luck the blade missed his face and main arteries.
Co-worker, Marlies Laser (recently retired as a lecturer with Wintec) was quickly on the scene, stopping the blood and calling the ambulance.
Dave is considered 'Mr Safety' within the ranks at Treescape and even he cannot believe just how fast an accident like this happens - a lesson for usall when working with a chainsaw.
Dave is recovering well following an operation on his shoulder this morning and should be released from hospital over the next few days - get well soonmate, we're all thinking of you!
Dave Stejskal (right) talking with Nicky Ward-Allen at the 2011 Auckland Regional TCC at Western Park in March.
