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An Australian Defence Force soldier has died in a vehicle rollover during training in northern Queensland.
Multiple personnel were reportedly injured in the incident allegedly involving an M113 armoured personnel carrier at the Australian Army’s Townsville Field Training Area, near Townsville on 15 October.
Paramedics and a rescue helicopter reportedly responded to the incident and two other soldiers were transported to Townsville University Hospital.
Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Richard Marles confirmed the loss in a public statement.
“My thoughts are with the family, friends, loved ones and colleagues of the Australian Army soldier who has sadly passed away following a training incident near Townsville last night,” he said.
“As a small, tight-knit community, I know this will be felt right across Townsville and the entire Australian Defence Force.
“This is a tragic loss and the sacrifice of our service personnel weighs heavily on us all.
“Our service men and women wear our nation’s uniform with pride and we recognise the risks they take each and every day in the defence of our nation. I know all Australians are embracing the Townsville community and 3rd Brigade today.”
“Very sad to hear of the loss of an Australian soldier, and the injury of two other soldiers, in a vehicle accident while training in North Queensland,” said Luke Gosling, special envoy for Defence, Veterans’ Affairs and Northern Australia.
The incident reportedly a single-vehicle crash occurred around 6.30pm on Wednesday.
“Thoughts are with these soldier’s families and our 3RAR family, the Townsville defence community and the wider ADF.
“This is a very sad reminder of the risks inherent in the training that infantry battalions and other ADF units conduct, as part of their duties.
“I’m thankful to these soldiers for their service and to everyone involved in the professional response that minimised further hurt from this tragedy.”
