Australian Defence Force personnel, who have been deployed to help emergency services respond to the impacts of the ex-cyclone, have been injured in a crash in northern NSW.
Two vehicles were travelling down Tregele Road, south of Lismore, this evening when one of them rolled and the other collided into it.
Of the 36 personnel injured, eight are in a serious condition, with two people trapped within the vehicles.
Emergency services are on the scene responding to the crash and Lismore Hospital has been put on red alert to expect a flow of casualties.
NSW Premier Chris Minns said he was “very concerned” to learn of the crash.
“I’m very concerned to hear reports of an accident involving Australian Defence Force personnel tonight,” he said.
“They came to the Northern Rivers to help keep this community safe.”
The Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister issued a joint statement on the “very serious incident”.
“A short time ago there was a serious vehicle incident involving two Australian Defence Force vehicles near Lismore,” the statement read.
“A number of ADF personnel have been injured, some seriously. Medical assistance is on hand. We stress this is an ongoing incident.
“Right now our focus is on the welfare of those involved and their families.
“Our ADF heroes were on their way to help Australians in need.”
While Opposition Leader, Peter Dutton, took to social media to share his shock.
“Deeply concerned by reports of ADF personnel seriously injured near Lismore while assisting with flood recovery,” he wrote in a post on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter.
“The ADF is at the forefront of Australia’s disaster response, bravely stepping into danger to protect and support communities.
“Our thoughts, prayers and gratitude are with them, their families and their fellow personnel. Wishing all those injured a full and speedy recovery.”
