Two lives have been lost on Mackay and Whitsunday roads in just one month, marking a tragic start to 2025. Authorities are pleading with all drivers to slow down, drive defensively, and stay vigilant. The recent fatalities are part of a growing road crisis across Queensland, with road deaths doubling compared to last year. Every decision made on the road can be the difference between life and death.
The Queensland Police Service urges everyone to pay attention to road conditions, act cautiously, and help prevent further heartbreak and loss.
“These tragic numbers are not just statistics, they represent fathers, mothers, sons, daughters, and friends whose lives have been cut short,” said Acting Chief Superintendent Garrath Channells of QPS Road Policing and Regional Support Command.
“We’re pleading with every road user to make the right choices, because every decision you make on the road has the power to save a life or take one.”
Mackay Whitsundays District Acting Inspector Jeremy Novosel emphasised the importance of driving to road conditions.
“We have had two fatalities this year in the Mackay and Whitsunday district, and we really implore that all road users travel safely and get to their destinations,” he said.
A 67-year-old motorcyclist from Roma lost his life after a traffic crash on the Bruce Highway near Mount Ossa earlier this week. He was airlifted to Mackay Base Hospital by BMA CQ Rescue. Photo credit: BMA CQ Rescue
Then use the head / shoulders of the police man in a circle on the front...
Caption: Mackay Whitsundays District Acting Inspector Jeremy Novosel
The first tragedy struck on the 7th of January when Ooralea father, Nick Evangelista, 58, was killed in a crash on Hay Point Road, Alligator Creek. Police allege that a speeding driver of a black Holden ute lost control, veering into the opposite lane and colliding with Mr. Evangelista's silver Kia. The driver of the ute reportedly tested positive to a roadside breath test.
Just two weeks later, on the 20th of January, a 67-year-old motorcyclist from Roma lost his life following a traffic crash on the Bruce Highway near Mount Ossa. According to police investigations, the man attempted to overtake a truck but lost traction, causing the motorcycle to crash into the truck. He sustained critical injuries and was rushed to Mackay Base Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
Inspector Novosel urged drivers to remain cautious, particularly in adverse conditions.
“We need to drive defensively, particularly where it is a situation that roads are affected by rainfall or other environmental circumstances, and we need to pay attention to road conditions and other road users,” he said.
The tragedies in Mackay and Whitsundays reflect a broader state-wide crisis. QPS data shows that more than 15 people have lost their lives on Queensland roads so far this year, which is more than double the toll for the same period in 2024.
“These tragic numbers are not just statistics, they represent fathers, mothers, sons, daughters, and friends whose lives have been cut short,” said Acting Chief Superintendent Garrath Channells of QPS Road Policing and Regional Support Command.
“Police are out there doing everything they can on the roads to try and bring this figure down and ensure people can return home to loved ones or their families.
“To then observe the deadliest start to the year since 2020 is truly harrowing.
“We’re pleading with every road user to make the right choices, because every decision you make on the road has the power to save a life or take one.”
The BMA CQ Rescue helicopter has already been called to assist with several serious incidents this year, including a multi-vehicle crash on the Peak Downs Highway earlier in January. While no fatalities were reported from that incident, one person was airlifted to Mackay in a critical condition, underscoring the need for extra vigilance on the roads.
To learn more about road safety and QPS’s initiatives to help make Queensland’s roads safer, visit: www.police.qld.gov.au/initiatives/road-safety
Mackay Whitsundays District Acting Inspector Jeremy Novosel. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
The BMA CQ Rescue helicopter has responded to several serious incidents this year, including a multi-vehicle crash on the Peak Downs Highway in January. While no fatalities occurred, one person was airlifted to Mackay in critical condition. Photo Source: BMA CQ Rescue
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