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Newly released footage shows ABC reporter Will Murray and a bystander, Daniel Hainey, diving into raging floodwaters in Morayfield to pull a trapped driver from a sinking SUV. The dramatic rescue — caught on camera by ABC’s Liz Pickering — is a stark, vivid reminder that bad choices and sudden weather can turn deadly in seconds.
Dramatic rescue caught on camera
The video is jaw‑dropping and short: heavy rain turns Buchanan Road into a river, a four‑wheel‑drive stalls and begins to sink, and Murray and Hainey don’t hesitate. Murray says he rang Triple Zero, handed his phone to the camera operator, then swam out and helped force a rear door open so the driver could get out moments before the vehicle disappeared. Reports put the rainfall in the area at about 170 millimetres that morning. Emergency crews arrived roughly ten minutes after the rescue; witnesses and the camera operator say the two men likely saved that driver’s life.
Why this matters: common sense versus danger
This is not a heroic parable about rugged self‑reliance. It’s a blunt lesson in simple common sense: do not drive into floodwater. The driver misjudged depth and current — a mistake many people make because floodwater hides danger. Credit where it’s due: Murray and Hainey acted fast and saved a life. But applaud the bravery and still scold the bad call that made the rescue necessary. Heroism is rare; poor judgment is common.
What officials and media should do next
Local councils and road authorities should stop with the press releases and put in practical fixes: clearer signage, physical barriers at known low points, and quick road closures when water starts to rise. Emergency services should review response times so split‑second rescues don’t have to rely on bystanders. ABC should also take a hard look at reporter safety protocols — praise the courage, but don’t make a habit of turning journalists into impromptu rescue teams. Real change is cheap compared to another preventable tragedy.
Takeaway
Watch the footage and applaud the quick thinking, but don’t let that applause excuse bad choices. Floodwater is not a dare. If you see standing or fast‑moving water on the road, turn around. Let common sense be the first responder — because bravery is admirable, but it shouldn’t be a backup plan for irresponsibility.
