Cyclist Airlifted to Hospital After Collision with Ambulance in Avoca – October 11, 2024

What happened

Incident Overview

On Friday, October 11, 2024, a cyclist collided with an ambulance at the intersection of Wildes Meadow Road and Sheepwash Road in Avoca, NSW, in the Southern Highlands region approximately 13 kilometres west of Robertson. The male cyclist, in his 40s, sustained injuries that required airlifting to hospital, though his condition is not considered life-threatening.

Paramedics from the ambulance involved in the collision were immediately able to provide medical assistance at the scene. A crime scene was established, and Sheepwash Road was closed between the Illawarra Highway and Nowra Road to allow for investigation and scene management.

Location and Time

The collision occurred at the intersection of Wildes Meadow Road and Sheepwash Road in Avoca, NSW, at approximately 10:00 AM on Friday morning, October 11, 2024.

Vehicles Involved

Vehicle 1

• Type: Bicycle
• Rider: Male in his 40s

Vehicle 2

• Type: Ambulance
• Status at time of collision: Under investigation; unclear whether responding to emergency call

Injuries / Fatalities

Fatalities

• None reported.

Injuries

• Male cyclist, 40s (treated at scene; airlifted to Liverpool Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries)

Community Impact

Sheepwash Road was closed between the Illawarra Highway and Nowra Road in Avoca. Local traffic diversions were implemented to manage traffic flow in the Southern Highlands region during the investigation and scene clearance.

Emergency Response

Paramedics from the ambulance involved in the collision were present at the scene and immediately provided medical assistance to the injured cyclist. The patient was treated at the scene before being airlifted to Liverpool Hospital by helicopter.

Investigation

NSW Police have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision. The exact cause of the crash remains under investigation, including whether the ambulance was responding to an emergency call at the time of the incident.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the collision and any persons with dashcam or CCTV footage that may have captured the incident to come forward. Such evidence may help determine the cause of the crash and any contributing factors.

Appeal for Information

NSW Police are seeking information from any witnesses to the collision at Wildes Meadow Road and Sheepwash Road in Avoca on Friday, October 11, 2024. Anyone with dashcam or CCTV footage, or other relevant information, is urged to contact NSW Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.