Christine Hinds mourned by Gumlu community after tragic crash
A small North Queensland community is still coming to terms with the consequences of a tragic crash that took the life of one of their own, as messages flow to the grieving family.
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A small Whitsunday community is still coming to terms with the consequences of a tragic crash that took the life of one of their own, as messages flow to the grieving family.
The Gumlu community today grieves the loss of Christine Hinds, a 70-year-old woman well known in her local community, and closely involved with the local tavern.
Ms Hinds was driving on the Bruce Highway back towards Gumlu in her Hyundai i30 on Tuesday afternoon, when she was involved in a head-on crash with another car at the locality of Inkerman just south of Home Hill after 1pm.
She died of her injuries at the scene.
The 61-year-old Ayr woman who was driving the other car in the opposite direction was flown to Townsville University Hospital in a critical condition.
She was still in a critical but stable condition as of Wednesday morning.
A message was posted on the Facebook page of the Gumlu Tavern, stating that the venue had closed down as their “personnel are struggling to come to terms with this tragic event”.
Ms Hinds attended many events organised by the local tavern over the years, between special events and birthdays, she would always be involved, recorded by many posts shared on the tavern’s Facebook page.
Members of the community shared their grief at the news and sent their love to the family in comments.
“Our thoughts are with you all, especially Percy. I for one will miss Christine she was a great friend to many. Fly high beautiful lady,” one commented.
“Thinking of you all in Gumlu! Such tragic news! Many lives have been affected. Just a terrible loss! Heartfelt Sympathy! Christine And Family,” said another.
The section of the Bruce Highway south of Home hill where the fatal crash took place is one of the worst in the state, and has been targeted in the Help Our Highway campaign.
Whitsundays mayor Ry Collins said he was saddened to hear the news of Ms Hinds’ passing.
“I want to pass on my condolences to the family,” he said.
Speaking on how people just don’t feel safe on the Bruce Highway, Mr Collins said increasing federal funding for upgrades is crucial for the north.
“For us it’s the ongoing mission of continuing discussions with the federal government,” he said.
“There definitely needs to be continued investment in the Bruce Highway.”
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