NSW father dies in well accident

A 12 and 13-year-old have driven 35km in a desperate bid to save the life of their parents who were trapped down a well on their remote northern NSW property.

Police say their brave journey failed to save their father who died after apparently becoming overwhelmed by fumes in the well.

The 29-year-old had been installing a water pump at the bottom of the well near Weilmoringle on Saturday.

His 28-year-old partner had tried to rescue him but fell onto a ledge in the well when a rope ladder broke.

It was then their two children took charge, driving off the property to raise the alarm.

Their mother is in a serious condition at Orange Base Hospital suffering from shock and possible carbon monoxide poisoning.