Boy, 3, dies in tragic accident at Rockhampton Showgrounds

A colourful memorial has been lovingly created outside a showgrounds in memory of the little boy who tragically lost his life in a horror accident this week. VIDEOS, PICTURES

Little toy dinosaurs and colourful toy cars have been lovingly placed at the fence of the Rockhampton Showgrounds in memory of the little boy who was tragically lost in a horror accident this week.

Beef Capital locals are wrapping their arms around the show community following Tuesday’s shock tragedy when a three-year-old boy died after he was hit by a car at the showgrounds.

A blue and white plush dragon teddy can also seen hanging on the fence at the tribute site.

A Queensland Police Service spokeswoman said the Forensic Crash Unit was assisting Workplace Health and Safety.

Flowers and toys have been left at a memorial space at Gate 8 of the Rockhampton Showgrounds in tribute to a three-year-old boy who tragically died after being hit by a car. Photos: Geordi Offord

Emergency services were called to the tragedy on Exhibition Rd at 4.33pm.

According to Queensland Ambulance Service, paramedics treated the child in a critical condition at the scene.

On Thursday afternoon a small memorial began to form with colourful dinosaurs, little toy cars and flowers being left in tribute to the toddler.

Rockhampton Showgrounds on Wednesday morning. Picture: Geordi Offord

A man working at a business near the showgrounds, who asked to remain anonymous, said they heard sirens blasting by after the tragedy unfolded. He said they were aware emergency services were looking for the entrance to the Rockhampton Showgrounds.

But it wasn’t until Wednesday morning they discovered what had happened.

A Rockhampton Regional Council spokesperson said they were providing support to those involved in the show who are impacted by this tragedy.

“Rockhampton Regional Council is deeply saddened by the tragic incident that occurred yesterday resulting in the loss of a young child,” the spokesperson said.

“Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family and loved ones of this child and our thoughts are with them during this difficult time.

“A sense of solemnity will certainly be felt as the show community comes together in the wake of this loss and in preparation of next week’s show.

“Council is currently providing support to those involved in the Show who are impacted by this tragedy.”

A woman in her 40s was transported to Rockhampton Hospital in a stable condition.

A spokesman for QAS said the woman didn’t appear to have suffered any injuries.

A spokeswoman for Central Queensland Hospital and Health Service said the woman had been discharged.

A Queensland Police Service spokeswoman said a report will be prepared for the coroner.

A three-year-old boy has lost his life in a tragic accident at the Rockhampton Showgrounds. Picture: Emma McBryde

“The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating following a fatal traffic incident at showgrounds in Wandal yesterday,” a spokeswoman said.

A Workplace Health and Safety Queensland spokesperson said WHSQ had been notified of the tragic incident and was working with police.

A man who lives near the showgrounds and wished to go unnamed said he wasn’t home at the time the incident unfolded and only found out the news Wednesday morning.

“It’s sad, a little fella like that,” the man said.

“I feel sorry for the parents … it’s sad when little people go like that before their time.”

Rockhampton Showgrounds on Wednesday morning. Picture: Geordi Offord

News of the little boy’s death has rocked the Central Queensland community.

Katy Rawlings described the news on Facebook as “gut wrenching”.

She went on to post to The Morning Bulletin’s page: “my thoughts are with the family and the person involved R.I.P darling angel”.

Cecelia Scott posted “How heartbreaking, Condolences to the family. RIP little man”.

Michelle N Jason Steger wrote: “Sending my sincerest condolences to the family of the young boy.

“Your time on this planet was cut way too short. Also sending heartfelt hugs to the person in the car. I hope you can get past this tragic accident. May you understand, it could have been anyone.”

“Oh my goodness how horrendous,’’ Bek Edwards wrote.

“Thoughts and condolences to all who knew and loved him.

Jan Doblo wished the ‘darling’ boy to be with the ‘warm and loving angels’.

The Showmens Guild of Australasia chose not to comment after learning of the incident.