A major rescue operation unfolded on the Gold Coast on Thursday after a construction worker became trapped under concrete in a serious workplace incident.
Emergency Response to Minnie Street Site
The incident occurred at a construction site on Minnie Street in Southport. A man, aged in his 40s, was working when construction material and concrete is believed to have fallen from a crane, pinning him by the legs.
Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) received the emergency call at approximately 12:15pm. Three ambulance crews were immediately dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, paramedics found the man still trapped, with fire and rescue crews already working to free him from beneath the rubble.
"Prolonged" Rescue Effort Leads to Successful Extraction
A QAS spokesperson initially indicated the extrication would likely be a prolonged operation due to the complex and dangerous circumstances. However, in a coordinated effort, fire and rescue crews managed to free the man just after 1:00pm, utilising four specialist crews to safely complete the task.
The man was then transported to hospital for assessment and treatment. The full extent of his injuries is not yet known.
Investigation and Workplace Safety
The incident has triggered a workplace safety investigation. Work Safe Queensland has been notified and is expected to examine the circumstances surrounding the accident. Such incidents highlight the ongoing risks present on construction sites and the critical importance of strict safety protocols.
Authorities have not released further details about the man's condition or the specific cause of the material collapse. More information is expected as the investigation proceeds.
