Two dead as road trains collide at Brewarrina
Two truck drivers are dead after a head-on crash involving two B-doubles on the Kamilaroi Highways near Brewarrina on Saturday night.
Emergency services were called to the Dodge Road bridge on the western side of Brewarrina, about 7pm on Saturday night, after the heavy vehicles crashed and caught fire.
Witnesses report that their peaceful Saturday evening was shattered with a loud crash, an explosion and acrid black smoke engulfing the town.
Authorities closed the Kamilaroi Highway in both directions from Brewarrina as emergency services fought to bring the fire under control.
Both drivers died at the scene; and so far, neither has been identified.
Fire-fighters worked for hours to control the blaze.
The Kamilaroi Highway was blocked from as far west as Bourke with local diversions via unsealed roads until Monday morning.
Inspector Peter Walton spoke highly of the “multi-agency response to the crash – commending the response of local firefighters, SES, police, ambulance and Bre Council workers.
“The crash site was an horrific scene,” Inspector Walton said. “And I would like to pay tribute to the emergency services who responded to such a tragic event.”
Between 30 and 40 people were joined by Brewarrina Mayor, Vivian Slack–Smith, as they expressed their grief and experiences, and met to support each other.
“I am proud to be a part of this great community, everyone involved gave 110 per cent,” Councillor Slack-Smith said.
A vigil to remember and honour the two drivers is planned for Saturday 5th March.
Beginning around the time of the accident a remembrance walk will proceed, in silence, from the yarning circle to the crash site.
Linda Simpson, one of those involved in the yarning circle said the community wants to show the families of those involved that they are thinking of them.
“It will be an opportunity to lay a wreath or place flowers.
Mayor Slack–Smith said that the council will be assisting and laying a wreath at the site.
Officers from Central North Police District continue to investigate the crash. A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.
Anyone with information or dashcam vision relevant to this investigation is urged to call Brewarrina Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.