Real estate employee mauled by dogs during inspection

A real estate employee has been seriously mauled by two dogs while undertaking a property inspection in Umina.

Ms Joanne Hayes, a 49-year-old property manager at Wiseberry Peninsula in Umina, was attending a pre-booked inspection of a home on Australia Ave, at around 10am on June 20, when she was set upon by two bull mastiffs at the premises.

It is understood that the tenant was not present for the inspection.

Ms Hayes suffered injuries to both her legs and arms, before neighbours came to her aid after hearing her cries for help.

She was flown to Royal North Shore Hospital by CareFlight helicopter after initial treatment from NSW Ambulance paramedics.

Wiseberry Peninsula director Mr Troy Howe said Ms Hayes was recovering well in hospital.

"Jo has undergone several operations and is in good spirits," he said.

"We were deeply shocked when we learned what happened and we thank the community for their ongoing support.

"Jo in particular has been heartened to learn how many members of the community, some with no links to the business, have dropped into the real estate to ask after her recovery," Mr Howe said.

Wiseberry Peninsula has been operating for seven years without incident.

Mr Howe said safety was at the forefront of the agency's ethos and a full review of procedures had occurred since Ms Hayes was attacked.

The two dogs were euthanised after being surrendered to Central Coast Council rangers.

SOURCE:

Media release, 21 Jun 2019

Andrew Refshauge, CareFlight

Interview (Dilon Luke), 4 Jul 2019

Troy Howe, Wiseberry Peninsula