Traffic was heavily disrupted on Newcastle Link Road in the Wallsend area of New South Wales following a major crash involving a vehicle and multiple people on October 3, 2026.
Emergency services were reportedly sent to the scene near the Transfield Avenue roundabout shortly after 9:30 a.m. Local reports said a car struck people who had gathered along the road to farewell the Newcastle Knights team bus ahead of the NRL grand final.
Multiple casualties were reported. Early reports indicated that up to seven adults and one child were injured, although the full extent of their injuries was not immediately known. Police, paramedics and several rescue helicopters were dispatched to the area as emergency crews treated those affected.
The crash caused significant traffic congestion, with Newcastle Link Road reported closed westbound from Lake Road while emergency crews worked at the scene. Motorists were being urged to avoid the affected area and allow additional time for their journeys.
The incident occurred amid increased traffic in Newcastle as supporters prepared to travel to Sydney for the Newcastle Knights’ grand final appearance. Authorities were already expecting heavier-than-normal traffic across the region over the weekend.
The circumstances leading to the collision remain under investigation. Drivers approaching the area should follow directions from police and traffic authorities and avoid entering any emergency response zone.
Further information about the injured individuals, the circumstances of the crash and when the affected road lanes will reopen is expected as authorities continue their response.