Twelve soldiers remain hospitalized, two in serious condition, after two army trucks carrying troops from the 2nd Combat Engineer Regiment crashed on a road near Lismore on Saturday during a severe weather event. Thirty-two defense personnel were involved, including members of the 7th Brigade based at Gallipoli Barracks in northern Brisbane. Both vehicles rolled in slippery conditions, but did not collide. The trucks were part of the military’s deployment to Lismore to assist with the expected flooding from ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, a city that had seen unprecedented flooding in 2022. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese reported that 13 soldiers were injured, with six in serious condition, and by Sunday 12 remained in Lismore Base Hospital. NSW police confirmed that all personnel were wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash.

Albanese praised the soldiers’ bravery and commitment to helping those in need amidst their own family struggles with the cyclonic conditions. The defense minister, Richard Marles, defended the military’s role in disaster relief, stating that the ADF has the skills and equipment needed to keep people safe and will continue to provide support during emergencies. He noted the pride the defense force personnel take in their contributions to help fellow Australians. NSW Premier Chris Minns also commended the soldiers for their dedication and selflessness, expressing the hope that the incident would not deter future military involvement in disaster response and relief efforts. The cause of the accident is currently under investigation.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/mar/09/twelve-soldiers-remain-in-lismore-hospital-after-army-trucks-rolled-in-northern-nsw