Speeding concerns grow after Starling Road pharmacy crash

Concerns over dangerous driving on Starling Road have resurfaced following a late-night collision that left a motorist seriously injured and caused extensive damage to Southside Pharmacy.

The crash happened at about 10:45pm on 11 September, when a black Audi and a red Toyota Conquest were allegedly racing along Starling Road at high speed. The driver of the Toyota apparently lost control before crashing into the front of Southside Pharmacy. He was seriously injured and transported to hospital. Videos believed to show the two vehicles racing before the collision, as well as the crash itself, have been circulating on social media.

The impact damaged the pharmacy’s boundary wall, gates, signage poles and electrical meter box, along with associated electrical infrastructure. The damage left the pharmacy without power and also affected neighbouring streets and businesses further along Starling Road that shared the same supply infrastructure. Although the financial damage can be repaired, the incident has highlighted the potential consequences of reckless driving in an area used by residents, pedestrians and businesses.

The collision occurred after Southside Pharmacy had closed for the evening. This meant there were no patients, staff or members of the public entering or leaving the premises at the time. Southside Pharmacy operates seven days a week and serves residents from Lenasia South and surrounding communities. During the day, the premises have a steady flow of patients and customers. The pharmacy owners say the incident should serve as a warning to motorists who use Starling Road, particularly during the evening and late-night hours when speeding and racing have become a concern.

“This is not simply about the damage to our property. Damage to the property can be repaired, but a life cannot be replaced. Had this happened during business hours, when patients, children, staff and other members of the public were entering or leaving the pharmacy, the consequences could have been devastating,” the owners said.

Residents and motorists are being urged to slow down and exercise greater caution on Starling Road, which runs through a residential and business community. The pharmacy owners are appealing to drivers to take responsibility on the road and avoid behaviour that could put other road users and pedestrians at risk.