Volunteer Hospitalised After Dramatic Crash at Geelong Car Festival
A volunteer event marshal was rushed to hospital after a high-performance BMW lost control and slammed into a concrete barrier during drag racing at Geelong's popular Revival Motoring Festival.
The incident occurred during what was meant to be a quarter-mile sprint at the annual motoring event, leaving spectators stunned as the vehicle veered out of control and collected the volunteer who was standing trackside.
Eyewitnesses Describe Chaotic Scene
Witness Adam Turley described the dramatic moment, stating "It was pretty crazy to see. It all happened pretty quick" as the brand-new BMW careened into barriers.
Another spectator, Harrison Dinsmore, noted that the driver managed to walk away from the serious collision, though appeared understandably embarrassed. "Yeah, he was standing by the car. I think the car protected him like it should", Dinsmore observed.
Medical personnel on site reported that the volunteer's foot became trapped between a connector and the tarmac during the impact. Concerns were raised about the marshal wearing thongs instead of protective footwear at the time of the accident.
Event Organisers Respond to Safety Concerns
Festival organisers confirmed this marks the first significant volunteer injury in the event's 12-year history. In an official statement, they expressed their commitment to supporting the injured man's recovery.
"We have been in touch with his family and we understand he is in good spirits. We will continue to support his recovery and will conduct a full review", event representatives stated.
The man in his 60s received medical treatment at the scene before being transported to hospital for further care. His current condition remains undisclosed.
Safety Protocols Under Review
The incident has prompted immediate discussions about safety measures at the unique motorsport venue. Spectator Manny Law highlighted the distinctive nature of the Geelong track, noting "it's not just a straight drag strip; there's that slight bend in it".
Law predicted that "they'll be changing protocols on what the footwear is, that's for sure" following the alarming incident that saw the volunteer bleeding on the side of the track before emergency services intervened.
The Geelong Revival Motoring Festival continues to be a popular attraction for automotive enthusiasts, though this year's event will be remembered for the dramatic crash that has sparked crucial conversations about volunteer safety at motorsport events across Australia.
