An ABC journalist and a witness dramatically rescue a driver trapped in floodwaters in Morayfield, Queensland, after his vehicle broke down in deep water.
Journalist helps rescue driver from floodwaters
An Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) journalist, Will Murray, was covering floods in Morayfield when a vehicle broke down after entering deep water on Buchanan Road. As the vehicle began to sink, Murray handed his phone to camera operator Liz Pickering, called emergency services, and moved into the floodwaters. Witness joins rescue attempt
Another witness quickly joined Murray in the water. The two men first attempted to open the nearest door, then climbed onto the vehicle and considered breaking the rear window. They worked together to free the driver from the sinking vehicle. Driver escapes as vehicle submerges
Murray eventually forced open the rear passenger door, allowing the driver to escape before the pickup disappeared under water. The footage captured the dramatic rescue, followed by an emotional moment when the relieved driver embraced one of the men who had rescued him. Rescuers praise the effort
Pickering stated that the two men had "undoubtedly saved this man's life." No serious injuries were reported. Approximately 170 millimeters of rain had fallen in Morayfield, where severe flooding caused road closures and made the shopping center largely inaccessible. Authorities warn about flood dangers
Queensland authorities warned drivers against driving or swimming in floodwaters, reminding that vehicles can quickly become trapped or swept away.
