Watch FIFA World Cup 2026™

LIVE, FREE and EXCLUSIVE starting June 12 2026

Qld lifeguard in court over 4WD mishap

A Gold Coast lifeguard is unable to plead guilty to running over two tourists in a 4WD until the extent of his victims' injuries is known.

A Gold Coast lifeguard accused of running over two sunbathers in a four-wheel drive could face more serious charges.

Luke Bartlett, 24, was preparing to enter a guilty plea on a charge of dangerous operation of a motor vehicle at Southport Magistrates Court on Thursday.

But uncertainty over the extent of the injuries suffered by one of the two tourists in the incident on December 23 meant prosecutors weren't in a position to accept Bartlett's plea.

It's alleged Bartlett ran over the two tourists as they sunbathed on Surfers Paradise beach.

Bartlett's lawyer Jason Jacobson said outside the court following an earlier appearance his client had been going to the aid of a collapsed swimmer at the time of the accident.

News that makes sense

Your trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox.

By subscribing, you agree to SBS’s terms of service and privacy policy including receiving email updates from SBS.

Dominic Francisco, 26, from England and Canadian Saba Akbarishandiz, 28, were hospitalised with leg and chest injuries.

Prosecutors told the court they're seeking clarity over the extent of Ms Akbarishandiz's injuries before finalising what charge Bartlett will face.

The matter has been adjourned until April 14.


1 min read

Published

Updated

Source: AAP


Share this with family and friends


Get SBS News straight to your inbox

Sign up now for daily news from Australia and around the world. You can also subscribe to Insight's weekly newsletter for in-depth features and first-person stories.

By subscribing, you agree to SBS’s terms of service and privacy policy including receiving email updates from SBS.

Follow SBS News

Download our apps

Listen to our podcasts

Get the latest with our News podcasts on your favourite podcast apps.

Watch on SBS

SBS World News

Take a global view with Australia's most comprehensive world news service

Stream now

Watch the latest news videos from Australia and across the world