Soldier collapses at Ekka opening ceremony, left on ground as show goes on

A soldier was left lying motionless on the ground for several minutes after she collapsed during the Ekka’s opening ceremony, leaving members of the crowd in shock.

A soldier who collapsed during the Ekka’s opening ceremony was left motionless on the ground for several minutes before anyone offered assistance, leaving members of the crowd in shock.

The incident happened Saturday night, with the female soldier left laying on the ground during the national anthem and until the soldiers around her got the order to march off. A couple of soldiers then went to her aid but were unable to sit her up.

Several dignitaries were on stage at the time, including Governor of Queensland Jeannette Young, but the stage was facing away from the soldiers.

The soldier was on the ground for several minutes before anyone approached her.

From the crowd, the soldier could be seen putting her head up for a second before she received help from others.

Paramedics arrived about 13 minutes later and managed to get her on her feet. The large crowd cheered as soon as the woman was brought to her feet.

Fellow Army officers offered assistance after several minutes.

A Queensland Ambulance Service spokeswoman confirmed paramedics attended multiple incidents within the Ekka precinct at the RNA Showgrounds, assisted by St John’s Ambulance Queensland.

An RNA spokesperson on Sunday confirmed an Army officer fainted during the formal proceedings.

The Army officer was later taken in a buggy.

“The person was attended to by a fellow Army officer, assessed and put into the

recovery position until she was treated by St John’s Ambulance in the main arena,” the spokesperson said.

“The person was then transported off the main arena by a St John’s Ambulance buggy. St John’s has advised that she is doing well.”

A Defence spokeswoman said for safety it was advised she remain in position until medical assistance could be provided.

“While usual protocol is that members not feeling well take a knee, it was safer for this member to stay lying down in this instance,” she said.

“Fellow members supported and monitored her health whilst assistance was sought.

“Defence can confirm the solider is in good health today and was grateful for assistance from the unit and Queensland Ambulance Service.

“Defence would like to thank the EKKA attendees and support services for their assistance.”