POLICE are investigating after a motorcycle rider collided with a barrier on the Goulburn Valley Highway between Yea and Molesworth and was airlifted to hospital with serious non-life-threatening injuries. Police attended the scene last Saturday at the top of Cottons Pinch cutting, alongside Ambulance Victoria and CFA. The air ambulance helicopter landed on the road, blocking traffic in both directions for around two hours. According to a Police spokesperson, “Police received reports of a collision in Molesworth on 17 October. “It is believed a motorcycle rider collided with a barrier on the Goulburn Valley Highway about 2.25pm. “The rider, a 45-year-old female from Moonee Ponds, was airlifted to hospital with serious non-life-threatening injuries. “An investigation will be conducted to establish the cause of the collision.” Anyone who witnessed the incident, with footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or anonymously at crimestoppersvic.com.au The Motorbike Riders Association of Australia has previously called on the Victorian Government to ban wire rope barriers. They said in 2023, “The justification for using wire rope barrier because it reduces casualty crashes is bogus. “Cars get vaulted into the air and/or rolled pretty much daily but VicPol crash investigators do not record barrier types in crash reports. “Even Prime Minister Morrison’s security officers rolled an SUV after hitting wire rope barrier in Tasmania in 2022. “The hazard and the cost to Victorian road users from wire rope barrier is too high to continue. “Some countries have banned wire rope barrier, some have restricted their use and some are not replacing them… “The MRAA calls for a halt to the installation of wire rope barriers in Victoria.” During a collision, motorcyclists often slide at a shallow angle, which may lead to a direct impact with wire ropes or the concrete posts and can cause catastrophic injuries. Some CFA members have also criticised wire rope barriers for blocking access to crashes and bushfires.
