June 18, 2025

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Incident Overview

A fatal single-vehicle crash occurred on Thursday, June 18, 2025, at approximately 6:45 pm on the Bruce Highway, near Donohues Road, in Farleigh, Queensland, about 11 km north-west of Mackay.

The incident involved a black Toyota Kluger, which lost control and came to rest on nearby railway tracks. A 73-year-old woman from Mackay was taken to Mackay Hospital, where she died from her injuries.

Two children who were also in the vehicle were hospitalised with minor injuries.

Queensland Police are investigating the cause of the crash and have urged witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage to come forward.

“An elderly woman has been killed in a single-vehicle accident near a railway line.”
— 7NEWS report

Location and Time

  • Crash Date: Thursday, June 18, 2025 (approximately 6:45 pm).
  • Location: Bruce Highway, near Donohues Road, Farleigh, Queensland — close to the railway line.

Vehicles Involved

  • A black Toyota Kluger, driven by a 73-year-old woman who died after the crash.
  • The vehicle crashed into railway tracks and came to rest there.
  • Two children were injured but not critically and were taken to hospital.

Injuries/Fatalities

  • Fatality:
    • The 73-year-old woman was pronounced dead at Mackay Hospital following the collision.
  • Minor Injuries:
    • Two children were treated for non-life-threatening injuries and transported to hospital.

Emergency Response

  • Paramedics and police responded quickly to reports of a serious crash involving a car on railway tracks.
  • The elderly driver was confirmed dead at the hospital, while the children were stabilised and taken to hospital.

“The black Toyota Kluger… ended up on railway tracks.”
— Queensland Police statement

Police Investigation

Queensland Police are examining:

  • The sequence of events leading to the collision with the railway tracks on the Bruce Highway.
  • Road conditions, visibility, and potential contributing factors such as speed, fatigue, or mechanical failure.
  • Dashcam or CCTV footage from the Bruce Highway near Donohues Road around 6:45 pm on June 18, 2025.

Authorities are urging anyone with relevant information or video evidence to contact Crime Stoppers or submit details via Policelink.

Community Impact

This tragic event highlights the risks of single-vehicle crashes near railway crossings and reinforces the need for caution and awareness among drivers — especially during evening hours. It also serves as a reminder to avoid the ‘Fatal Five’ road safety risks: speeding, drink and drug driving, not wearing seatbelts, fatigue, and distraction.

Appeal for Information

Anyone who witnessed the crash or has dashcam/CCTV footage of the Bruce Highway near Donohues Road in Farleigh around 6:45 pm on June 18, 2025 is urged to contact authorities:

  • Crime Stoppers QLD: Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
  • Witness Reporting: Contact Queensland Police directly via local station or through the official website.