Former Ipswich City councillor David Pahlke in serious condition after crash

A former Ipswich City councillor is “lucky to be alive” following a multi-vehicle crash in a rural part of the region on Friday.

The scene of the serious crash at Thagoona. Picture: Cam Jay

A former Ipswich City councillor is “lucky to be alive” following a multi-vehicle crash in a rural part of the region on Friday.

David Pahlke was airlifted to the Princess Alexandra Hospital in a serious condition, following a two vehicle crash at the intersection of Thagoona-Haigslea Rd and Karrabin-Rosewood Rd, Thagoona at 6.20pm.

Initial investigations suggest a grey Ford Ranger was travelling north on Thagoona-Haigslea Rd when it collided with a white Mini Cooper at the intersection with Karrabin Rosewood Rd.

The driver and sole occupant of the Mini Cooper, Mr Pahlke, was flown by helicopter to the Princess Alexandra Hospital with serious chest, pelvic, and leg injuries.

Mr Pahlke is a former Moreton Shire and Ipswich City Councillor from Rosewood, who served from 1991-2018.

Former Ipswich City councillor David Pahlke has been seriously injured in a crash at Thagoona. Picture: Facebook

Ipswich City Council Division 2 Cr Paul Tully went to visit Mr Pahlke in hospital, who was surrounded by his family and friends.

“He is very lucky to be alive and it was miraculous that he survived a major crash,” Mr Tully said.

“He is doing well but is likely to be in hospital for up to two months.

“He woke for a few seconds to say: “Hi Tulls”.

“He was a friend to many who will offer their best wishes to him for a speedy recovery.”

Former Ipswich City councillor David Pahlke in his Mini Cooper. Picture: Supplied

Mr Tully said Mr Pahlke’s car is very well-known locally.

“He has a Mini Cooper with a personalised number plate that is very well known in the Ipswich area,” he said.

“It is very recognisable.”

David Pahlke.

Mr Tully added that Mr Pahlke was well-liked in the local area.

“He’s a pretty colourful sort of bloke,” he said.

“He was the postmaster at Australia Post Rosewood before he got elected.

“Everyone knew him, that is probably how he got elected originally.”

The driver and passenger of the Ford Ranger, a 76-year-old man and 79-year-old female were taken to the Princess Alexandra Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Anyone who witnesses the crash or may have any dashcam or CCTV that could assist the investigation is asked to come forward.

Originally published as Former Ipswich City councillor David Pahlke in serious condition after crash