Lucky escape in power pole crash

By Mara Pattison-Sowden
A 24-year-old Reefton man lost control of his vehicle and hit a power pole in Warburton last Wednesday morning (18 August).
The man was driving his Toyota Landcruiser towards Reefton along Warburton Highway at 12.30am when he hit the power pole opposite the Max Sparks Reserve.
Warburton police acting sergeant Tony Pagels said it appeared excessive speed was a contributing factor.
He said the man suffered head injuries and was taken to Maroondah Hospital, where he was to undergo a blood alcohol test.
Upper Yarra SES spokesman Russell Wulf said when the car hit the post, it brought power lines down, which closed the highway for more than an hour. Mr Wulf said the vehicle was left facing in the opposite direction when it stopped, and the driver was “a bit of a mess”.
He said SES volunteers applied first aid to the man, while they waited more than half an hour for an ambulance to arrive.
“He was a very, very, lucky boy,” Mr Wulf said.
Police and SES would like drivers to be mindful of the nasty weather, and be vigilant on the roads.
“People get in their car and drive at the same speed all the time. You have to adjust your driving habits to the conditions,” Mr Wulf said.
Police said investigations were continuing.