Australian Story to Feature Arnold Dix, Monbulk’s Renowned Tunelling Expert
In an upcoming episode, ABC‘s Australian Story will delve into the life of Arnold Dix, a Monbulk, Victoria-based flower farmer, whose remarkable skills in tunnel rescue brought him international fame. In November last year, Dix played a crucial role in rescuing 41 Indian workers trapped underground after a tunnel collapse in the Himalayas.
Often jokingly referring to himself as the “worst farmer in Monbulk,” Dix’s eclectic career includes roles as a barrister, scientist, engineer, and a tunnelling specialist. His expertise has made him a go-to figure in global tunnelling crises. The program will explore his extraordinary journey and the events that led to his involvement in the high-profile rescue in India.
Dix recounts the harrowing experience at the collapse site, where his decades of expertise in “listening to the rock” proved instrumental in devising a strategy to safely extract the trapped workers. After 17 days of being buried, his innovative approach to ‘trick the mountain’ resulted in the successful rescue of all workers, an event that captivated India and the world.
“We try to trick the mountain and sneak in to get these men,” Dix shares with Australian Story. The emotional aftermath saw him unexpectedly reunite with 17 of the rescued workers at an airport, an encounter he captured on his iPhone, highlighting the poignant moment.
The episode also features interviews with Dix’s family, friends, and the chief engineer from India who oversaw the rescue operation. These personal insights provide a deeper understanding of the man who has been hailed as a hero in India for his daring efforts.
Australian Story is produced by Ian Walker, and it promises to offer viewers a unique look at a local hero whose actions have had a profound global impact.
