An investigation into a tragic incident that left a young woman with horrific injuries at the Melbourne Royal Show is getting closer to a resolution.
Shylah Rodden was placed in an induced coma for weeks after she was hit by the Rebel Coaster ride and suffered a brain injury on September 24, 2022.
The then-26-year-old was trying to get her phone back after dropping it on the tracks in an incident inadvertently captured on video by an onlooker.
The brief of evidence in the case has now been finalised by WorkSafe Victoria and handed over to barristers, 7News reported on Friday.
The lawyers will use that evidence to decide if any action should be taken against the operators and organisers of the show.
The major update has come three months out from the two-year deadline for action to be taken.
The Rebel Coaster returned to the Melbourne Royal Show in September last year, despite the ongoing investigation.
Ms Rodden’s family issued a statement around the same time to say internet trolls were impacting on Shylah’s recovery with their constant abuse.
Kylie Rodden said their focus was on supporting her daughter and helping her move on with her life.
‘We are so grateful to see her progress from the horrific injuries she suffered,’ she said in September 2023.
‘She has defied the odds.’
The family previously said they had been reluctant to speak out because of the ‘relentless abuse and criticism’ directed at Shylah.
‘What happened was a tragic accident, which as a family we’ve had to deal with. To be hearing and reading the negative comments made in the media and on social media has been hurtful to Shylah and our family,’ the statement read.
‘This sort of negativity has a real impact on the progress that has been made. We’ve done our best to shield Shylah from these comments, as so much of it has been misguided and, in many instances, cruel.
‘Unfortunately, Shylah has seen these comments and they really affect her.’
Ms Rodden said she hoped her statement would help people understand how hurtful some of the comments were.
‘Our wish is to keep moving forward and to enable Shylah to continue with her recovery and focus on the incredible progress that she’s making,’ she said.
The Rodden family also said they were keen to get an outcome to the WorkSafe investigation.