Truck and Van Catch Fire After Serious Crash on Western Australia Highway

Two vehicles caught fire after a major truck crash in Western Australia's Wheatbelt, leaving emergency crews working at the scene. The collision involved a refrigerated van and a truck towing a container trailer at the intersection of Great Eastern Highway and Quellington Road in Meckering. This location is about 130 kilometres from Perth.

Emergency Response

The crash was reported at around 6.45am. A Department of Fire and Emergency Services spokesperson stated that both vehicles were completely engulfed in flames when crews arrived around 7am. Nine volunteer and career firefighting crews along with four ambulance crews deployed to the site, and an emergency helicopter was also sent.

Current Status

Firefighters remain at the scene trying to put out the fire. Ambulance crews have not yet been able to reach the patients because of the flames, and authorities do not yet know how many people are involved in the crash. Great Eastern Highway stays closed near Quellington Road, with drivers told to use an alternate route.

Context

Major highways like the Great Eastern Highway are crucial freight routes connecting Perth to regional Western Australia, meaning accidents involving heavy vehicles often cause long-lasting traffic disruptions. Emergency response in rural areas relies heavily on a mix of local volunteer firefighters and specialized urban crews to handle severe incidents.