First pictures of Royal Show rollercoaster victim Shylah Rodden in hospital and how she looks two years on
Pictures of the Royal Show rollercoaster victim have emerged showing her progress two years on from the horrific incident.
Shylah Rodden was critically injured in September 2022 when she was struck by the Rebel Coaster after entering a fenced-off area to retrieve her phone.
She was hit by a cart travelling at a speed of up to 70km/h and thrown about 9m into the air before plummeting to the ground.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.Ms Rodden was left fighting for life, with media reporting she had severe brain damage and extensive injuries to her head, pelvis, arms, legs and back.
However, in new photos released by her family on Tuesday, the 28-year-old can be seen smiling outside a cafe, with no visible injuries on her face.
Despite the progress, Ms Rodden’s mother, Kylie, revealed her daughter remains blind in her right eye and deaf in her left ear.
“She has no sense of smell, she has difficulties swallowing, she has cognitive disabilities and impairments,” Kylie told the Herald Sun.
“Most of her days are taken up with different types of therapies.
“Sometimes she needs the support of a walking frame and a wheelchair, she can only go a limited time before she has to rest.”
Ms Rodden’s family also shared old photos of her in hospital days after the horrific incident and another photo of her with short hair following her release from hospital.
The update comes just one day after WorkSafe Victoria confirmed the investigation into the incident had ended.
In a statement on Monday night, it was revealed no further action would be taken.
“After careful consideration of the evidence, WorkSafe has determined not to take further action against any duty holder on this matter at this time,” he said.
Ms Rodden’s mum told DailyMail she is not at peace with the decision and is still unsure of what transpired on the day of the incident.
The family’s lawyer Sharlene Mehta also expressed disappointment that the investigation had been closed and revealed they had not been given a copy of the findings.
“At this stage, we have only received a letter from WorkSafe advising that their investigations are complete and that they have decided not to bring a prosecution against the ride operator,” Ms Mehta said.
“We have requested a copy of the findings of the investigations, but this will take six to eight months to get to us. Until then, we have little information about their findings.”