Family of former AFL player Aaron Shattock shares health update after being crushed by excavator

The family of hospitalised former AFL player Aaron Shattock has released a second health update, almost three weeks after he was crushed by an excavator just before Christmas.

The 44-year-old father of three was driving a digger on the Gold Coast on December 22 when it rolled, trapping him underneath.

Emergency services had to use the hydraulic rescue tool, also known as the jaws of life, to free the 2002 Brisbane Lions premiership player.

He was transported to Gold Coast University Hospital and placed in an induced coma.

Shattock’s family provided an initial update on his condition on Christmas Day, but has now shared a second.

“Aaron remains sedated and in intensive care at GCUH,” the Shattock family said in a statement.

“He underwent surgery on his fractured ribs and broken/dislocated arm yesterday, which was successful. We are hopeful for his recovery and will provide further updates as he makes progress.

“Our family is deeply grateful for the ongoing support, love, and prayers from everyone. Your kindness means the world to us and continues to give us strength during this time.

“With heartfelt thanks, the Shattock family.”

Shattock’s former captain Michael Voss, who now coaches Carlton, led tributes late last year for the father of three, describing his former teammate as “a ripping good fella”.

“I can’t believe it … it’s terrible at any time but just before Christmas is even worse. Our prayers are with him and his family,” he added.

Shattock retired in 2006 after playing 68 games for Brisbane and Port Adelaide.

He started on the bench for the Lions in the famous 2002 decider when they beat Collingwood by nine points.

The midfielder’s time at Brisbane finished in 2004, after which he moved to the Power where he added another 11 games to the 57 he played at the Lions.

He then moved to Queensland to play for Labrador, where he spent over 10 years at the club.