Emergency services executed a dramatic rescue on a major Far North Queensland highway after a violent collision left a motorist trapped in his vehicle for nearly an hour.
Serious Crash Closes Key Mountain Route
The incident occurred on the Gillies Range Road, a crucial and winding mountain pass connecting the Atherton Tablelands to Cairns. According to Queensland Police, the crash involved a utility vehicle and a truck. The force of the impact was significant, resulting in the ute's driver becoming entrapped within the wreckage for approximately 45 minutes.
Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) crews from Gordonvale were immediately dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, firefighters faced a complex task of using specialised hydraulic equipment to carefully cut the man free from the mangled vehicle. The delicate operation was successful, and the driver was subsequently transferred into the care of the Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS).
Emergency Response and Traffic Chaos
The serious crash caused major disruptions during the Thursday afternoon commute. The Gillies Highway was completely closed in both directions as emergency personnel worked to extricate the casualty and conduct initial investigations. This led to substantial traffic delays, with motorists advised to avoid the area and seek alternative routes.
While the condition of the trapped driver has not been officially detailed by authorities, the fact that a full-scale rescue operation was required underscores the severity of the collision. The driver of the truck involved was reportedly assessed at the scene but did not require hospital transport.
Investigation Underway and Community Impact
Forensic Crash Unit investigators have commenced a probe to determine the exact circumstances that led to the two-vehicle crash. The Gillies Range Road is known for its challenging, winding nature and is a vital transport link for the region's tourism and agriculture industries.
Local residents and regular commuters have expressed concern over the incident, which highlights the ongoing risks associated with mountain driving. The swift multi-agency response involving QPS, QFES, and QAS was critical in managing the emergency and preventing further danger.
Authorities are urging any witnesses or drivers with dashcam footage who were travelling on the Gillies Range Road around the time of the crash to come forward to assist police with their inquiries.
