Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
AAP
AAP
National
Marty Silk

Tributes for Qld ambos after fatal crash

Health Minister Yvette D'Ath paid tribute to two paramedics involved in an truck and ambulance crash (AAP)

Queensland's health minister has praised a paramedic who treated victims of an ambulance crash, in which another medic and a patient died, earlier this week.

The ambulance had been waiting at a road work traffic light on the Capricornia Highway at Stanwell in central Queensland about midday on Monday when it was rear-ended and pushed off the road by a truck before rolling.

A patient and nurse Ray Wyeth, aged 87 and 65, died at the scene while the ambulance driver, an operational services officer and another patient were taken to hospital in a stable condition.

The truck driver was also taken to hospital in a serious condition.

Health Minister Yvette D'ath has paid tribute to paramedic Ash O'Conner, who started treating other crash victims despite being injured himself.

"This loss will be felt by so many, I know this house will join me in expressing our sincere condolences to the family, loved ones, and community for this tragic loss in the course of everyday patient care," she told parliament on Thursday.

"I also want to acknowledge Biloela paramedic Ash O'Connor, who in spite of being involved in this accident immediately turned to providing first responder care to all of the victims."

"To Ash, his colleagues and family, we are so proud of you, and the professionalism and selfless care of others."

Ms D'Ath also paid tribute to paramedic Mr Wyeth, saying he was a much loved nurse, husband, father and grandfather.

She said her heart went out to Mr Wyeth's wife Jenny, son Tim and their extended family.

The minister shared a short tribute from Jenny to her husband, that she wanted share with parliament.

"Just like a soldier in battle he died in the line of duty, duty and care for others," Ms D'Ath said.

"His were the hands that alleviated the pain, that touched and encouraged the fearful, and those facing death.

"Even in the time of his own death, he was looking after the person in his care, assuring this elderly patient he would be with him, this person had Ray right like by his soul, together they died.

"Hundreds of patients have experienced his helping hands, his wealth of experience and his ability. Even as he lost his own life, Ray's hands were extended to help and support someone else.

"We take great comfort from this and learn from his example of service by the, this scripture: 'I am among you as one who serves' Luke 22:37 Vale Ray Wyeth."

Rockhampton forensic crash unit detectives have appealed for witnesses and any dash cam vision of the two vehicles.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.