Emergency services are currently responding to a serious multi-vehicle collision on the Bruce Highway north of Townsville, with motorists warned to expect major delays and avoid the area if possible.
Emergency Response Underway
The incident was reported shortly after 11:30 am on Tuesday, prompting a large-scale response from Queensland Police, Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS), and Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES). Initial reports indicate the crash involves several vehicles, though the exact number and the severity of injuries are still being assessed by authorities on the ground.
The crash site is located on the Bruce Highway near the intersection of Toobanna Road, approximately 40 kilometres north of the Townsville CBD. This is a critical freight and travel corridor, and the incident is causing significant disruption to traffic flow in both directions.
Traffic Chaos and Commuter Warnings
Police have established a significant exclusion zone around the crash scene as they work to clear wreckage, assist the injured, and begin their investigation into the cause of the collision. All lanes of the highway are currently blocked.
Motorists travelling between Townsville and Ingham are facing lengthy delays and are being strongly advised to reconsider their travel plans. Queensland Traffic has issued an official alert, stating that diversions are in place and urging drivers to expect extended travel times or to delay their journey entirely.
For those already in the area, patience is required as emergency crews work methodically. The situation is fluid, and it is anticipated that the highway will remain closed for a considerable period while the complex recovery and investigation processes are completed.
Investigation and Recovery Efforts
The primary focus for emergency personnel remains on providing medical care to those involved and ensuring the safety of the scene. Forensic Crash Unit investigators will attend to examine the circumstances leading up to the collision.
This latest serious incident on the Bruce Highway serves as a stark reminder for all road users to exercise extreme caution, particularly on long stretches of highway. Drivers are urged to be well-rested, obey speed limits, maintain a safe following distance, and be alert to changing conditions.
Authorities have not yet released details regarding the vehicles involved or the condition of those injured. Updates on the road closure and traffic conditions can be found via the Queensland Traffic website or official social media channels.
