Accident Archives - Over The Walter Taylor Bridge

Two-Year-Old Boy Killed in Durack State School Car Park Accident

A two-year-old Somali boy died on Thursday afternoon, November 28, in an accident at the car park of Durack State School. The tragic incident occurred around 3:34 PM with the child’s mother and sibling reportedly witnessing the event during school pick-up time.

Police Commissioner Steve Golleschewski confirmed an investigation is underway. “It’s early days on that investigation,” he said. “That’s just the worst thing for any family, to think a young one is lost so tragically … a life that will never be realised, so huge sympathy to that family.”

No charges have been laid, and police stated that a woman is assisting with inquiries.

The school community has been deeply affected. Durack State School’s Facebook statement expressed profound sadness, offering condolences to the family and confirming counselling support would be available. The pre-prep program was cancelled due to the incident.

Beny Bol from the Queensland African Communities Council offered condolences, saying, “It will be so forever. We need to be together and put yourself in the same situation.”

Safety concerns were raised by parents. One unidentified parent told media, “There is no fencing to stop kids from running onto the road,” while another described it as “an accident waiting to happen.”

The Department of Education issued a statement: “A tragic incident took place at Durack State School yesterday afternoon, and investigations are currently underway. Our deepest sympathies and condolences go out to the affected family and to our entire school community.”

The investigation continues as the community mourns the loss of the young boy, with flowers, notes, and toys surrounding the school as a memorial.

Published 29-November-2024

Woman Critical After Forklift Incident at Brisbane Markets

Photo Credit: Google Maps

A woman in her 40s is in critical condition after being struck by a forklift at the popular Brisbane Markets in Rocklea early Thursday morning, May 2, 2024.

The incident occurred around 6:15am, when the woman, an employee of one of the businesses operating at the markets, was involved in a collision with a forklift. She suffered serious head and leg injuries in the incident.

Paramedics were called to the scene and the woman was treated before being transported to Princess Alexandra Hospital in a serious condition. However, her condition has since deteriorated and she is now listed as critical, according to the hospital.

Andrew Young, CEO of Brisbane Markets Limited which operates the site, released a statement saying the incident is being investigated by the company, Workplace Health and Safety Queensland, and the woman’s employer.

“The collision is being treated as a serious incident,” Young stated. “Brisbane Markets considers the safety of everyone working at the site to be our top priority and reinforces to all businesses the importance of adhering to safe work practices.”

He extended well-wishes to the injured woman and her family on behalf of the company.

A spokesperson for Workplace Health and Safety Queensland confirmed their organisation has an open investigation into the incident, but could not provide further details at this time.

The Brisbane Markets at Rocklea are a major produce market supplying fresh fruit, vegetables, and flowers to retailers across Queensland. The large site operates around the clock, leading to concerns about vehicle and pedestrian safety if proper protocols are not followed.

Workplace safety advocates are calling for a thorough investigation and review of procedures to prevent similar tragic incidents in the future at one of Brisbane’s industrial hubs.

Published 4-May-2024

Bus Wedged Under Bridge in Graceville

Photo Credit: Pixabay / doctor-a

A Translink bus became wedged under a bridge in Graceville causing traffic disruptions and train delays on Tuesday afternoon.

May be an image of 3 people, train and text — Photo Credit: Facebook / Paul Tully Media

The incident occurred on Graceville Oxley Road at approximately 3:20 pm. There were no passengers on board as the bus was not in service, ensuring that no one was injured or trapped in the vehicle.

Authorities responded quickly to the scene, with emergency crews on-site to assist in freeing the bus. An exclusion zone was established, affecting several streets in the area. Motorists were urged to avoid the region due to the ongoing operation.

The situation lasted for nearly three hours, but by 6:10 pm, the bus was successfully dislodged from under the bridge, and the scene was cleared. Train services, which were initially disrupted, were gradually returning to normal operations.

Despite the resolution of the incident, residual train delays persisted, impacting commuters on the Airport, Beenleigh, and Gold Coast lines. Delays of up to 30 minutes longer than usual were experienced.

This unusual occurrence has prompted questions regarding safety measures and protocols for oversized vehicles in the area, as well as the potential impact on public transportation services in the region. Authorities are expected to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident to prevent similar situations in the future.

The Graceville bridge incident serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and safety regulations in the transport sector, as well as the need for efficient traffic management and coordination during such emergencies.

Published 4-November-2023