Mark Henschke dies after crash with garbage truck at Coffs Harbour

A legendary retired Coffs Harbour doctor has died after he collided with a garbage truck while cycling with mates in a devastating blow to the Coffs community.

Mark Henschke teaching medical students how to apply a cast. Picture: Facebook.

Legendary retired doctor Mark Henschke has died after he collided with a garbage truck while out on a cycle ride with mates on a notoriously dangerous road at Coffs Harbour earlier this month.

The crash on busy Sawtell Rd happened at about 7.20am on November 10, when Mr Henschke wound up crushed under the truck’s wheels.

NSW Ambulance paramedics treated the 72-year-old for severe leg injuries.

Mr Henschke was taken to Coffs Harbour Base Hospital before being flown to Gold Coast University Hospital.

The truck driver, a 28-year-old man, was taken to Coffs Harbour Base Hospital for mandatory testing.

Fellow cyclists were in shock following the collision of one of their riding mates with a garbage truck at Sawtell. Picture: Frank Redward

Officers from Coffs/Clarence Police District continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.

Police are appealing for anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has dashcam footage to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Mr Henschke was widely known and well-respected in the Coffs Harbour area and taught medical students at the University of NSW Rural Clinical School at Coffs Harbour hospital.

The crash scene on November 10 at Sawtell. Picture: Frank Redward.

In the wake of the horrific crash, well wishes had been building on the Coffs Coast Advocate Facebook page - many remembering Mr Henscke’s compassion and care as a rural obstetrician in towns including Armidale from the early ’80s through to 2009 before he moved to Coffs Harbour.

Fellow cyclist Roy Doutreband said Mr Henschke was out riding with about four others and was at the front of the group at the time of the tragedy.

“He came off the bike somehow, nobody really knows,” Mr Doutreband said.

It is believed the truck was pulling out from the curb after emptying a bin, when the collision happened.

In the confronting scene that unfolded, his fellow bike riders and passing drivers stopped to render assistance and they have been praised for their brave efforts by NSW Ambulance Inspector Chris Wilson.

Sawtell Rd - which runs from the Pacific Hwy at Boambee, and through Toormina towards Sawtell - is a notorious stretch.

Locals spoke out about its dangers following a horror accident there in June 2021.

A brief will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.