AFL icon Tony Modra is showing signs of recovery after a horrific accident on his property at Back Valley, about 90km south of Adelaide, on Thursday afternoon. The Adelaide Crows champion suffered severe facial and head injuries when a tree branch struck his cattle truck. SA Health confirmed that the 57-year-old's condition has improved from critical to stable.
Emergency Response and Surgery
An ambulance rushed Modra from the crash site to a local hospital before he was transferred to Flinders Medical Centre. On Friday, he underwent surgery on his jaw, cheek, and eye socket. During the Adelaide vs. Melbourne match at Adelaide Oval on Saturday, Crows great Mark Ricciuto shared that Modra is making good progress.
Nationwide Support
Fans showed their support with a huge sign reading “GODRA” at the game. FIVEAA presenter Jess Adamson noted “encouraging signs” in Modra's recovery. Great-grandmother Linda Cameron was first on the scene, describing how she found Modra unable to speak and holding his bleeding face. She stayed with him, keeping him warm and holding his hand until help arrived.
Witness Account
Another witness, Anthony, and his partner Sarah were driving on Range Road when they saw the truck. Anthony said a tree branch fell and hit the windshield. Modra managed to control the truck, got out, and collapsed. Anthony, a trained first responder, provided assistance, unaware of Modra's identity until later.
Career Highlights
Modra was a high-flying cult hero for the Crows in the 1990s. In 1993, he kicked 129 goals in an All-Australian season. He won the Coleman Medal in 1997 but missed the premiership due to an ACL injury. He later played for Fremantle, kicking 71 goals in 1999. Modra won the AFL mark-of-the-year award three times and goal of the year in 1995.
Premier's Tribute
South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas called Modra “an SA icon who has never forgotten where he came from.”
