'My face was pretty much burnt off': Farmer's heartbreaking message to drivers
A Dubbo farmer, who suffered burns to almost half his body in a horror crash that left him a double amputee, has delivered a harrowing warning to rural drivers about complacency behind the wheel.
Eight years ago Jamie Manning’s day began like any other, but changed forever during his fateful ride home from work.
A semi-trailer “took the bend a bit wide” to get around the corner and trapped the farmer between a the rig and a tree which turned into a fireball.
While his life was saved, Mr Manning suffered burns to 40 per cent of his body. His leg and hand became so badly burned and infected they needed to be amputated to save his life.
“My face was pretty much burned off – my nose, my eyelids,” he shared.
The father of three was in a coma for almost seven weeks, then underwent significant rehabilitation.
At the time, Mr Manning’s doctors couldn’t tell determine if he would be able to walk or talk again, or whether his life would even be worth living, he told.
After taking three years off work, the rodeo star and horse breeder has re-learned to walk, talk and even get back on his horse.
“I realise now the impact [the accident] had on my family… The one thing that does get to me is that I could have left them without father, without a husband.
“I can’t kick a football with the kids,” he said.
Mr Manning admitted complacency was a factor that contributed to the life-changing event, having driven on the road twice a day, five to six days a week.
“I never thought I would have an accident on that road I knew so well.
“I don’t think country men really do realise how high the chances are of having an accident… Your life can change so quickly. Everything you take for granted can be gone just like that.”
The farmer hoped sharing his story would serve as a message to others about taking more care on the roads, even those familiar, particularly in rural areas.
“Don’t speed, don’t drink drive, be aware of what’s around you,” he advised.
“If you’re tired, pull up and have a spell… Do you want to be in my situation?”
