AFL great Tony Modra is in a serious condition in hospital after a truck crash on the Fleurieu Peninsula.
Emergency services were called to Range Road, Back Valley, about 10 kilometres west of Victor Harbor, at about 5.15pm yesterday (Thursday 18 June) after reports a truck had crashed into a tree.
The 57-year-old, who works as a local dairy farmer, was airlifted to Flinders Medical Centre with serious injuries.
The former Adelaide Crows and Fremantle forward remains in hospital, with news of the crash prompting an outpouring of support from the football community.
South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas described Modra as a “SA icon” who had never forgotten where he came from.
“Tony and his family are in our thoughts tonight, and we all hope he’ll be ok,” Premier Malinauskas said.
Fremantle coach Justin Longmuir, who played alongside Modra at the Dockers, also sent his support following the club’s AFL match last night.
“Obviously, [he’s a] big part of the Freo family, and all I can say is I wish him and his family well,” he said.
“Hopefully, he can pull through. I’m thinking of him – we’re all thinking of him.”
Modra became one of the most recognisable players in Australian football during the 1990s, known for his spectacular marks and goal-scoring ability.
He played 165 AFL games, including 118 matches with Adelaide where he kicked 440 goals, before finishing his career with Fremantle.
The two-time All Australian won three Mark of the Year awards and the Coleman Medal in 1997.
Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Anyone who witnessed this incident or has any dashcam that may assist the investigation into the crash is asked to contact police via Crime Stoppers at www.crimestopperssa.com.au or 1800 333 000.
