Rhys Palmer during a Fremantle Dockers AFL training session in 2010.
Camera IconRhys Palmer during a Fremantle Dockers AFL training session in 2010. Credit: Supplied/Getty Images

Former Dockers star Rhys Palmer expected to make full recovery

Staff WriterMelville Gazette

FORMER Fremantle Dockers star Rhys Palmer is expected to make a full recovery after a motorbike accident saw him undergo emergency surgery on Saturday night.

The 30-year-old was travelling west on Canning Highway in Bicton when his motorbike collided with a Mitsubish Lancer.

Palmer received serious injuries and was taken by ambulance to Royal Perth Hospital where he underwent surgery.

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A statement from Swan Districts Football Club, where Palmer now plays, said the prognosis was good.

“It’s now been confirmed that Rhys doesn’t have a head or spinal injury,” it said.

Rhys Palmer. Photo: Getty
Camera IconRhys Palmer. Photo: Getty Credit: Supplied/Getty Images

“And although he had damage to his liver, it’s understood that this is expected to make a full recovery. He unfortunately lost his spleen on Saturday night to stop the internal bleeding.”

Rhys has been in and out of an induced coma which is helping his body recover from the significant trauma.

“He has been able to provide a limited but positive response to his father.

“His very close family have been by his side throughout the ordeal.”

Former Docker Palmer has plenty to prove at Swans

Traffic Crash Investigators are seeking witnesses who may have seen the Mitsubishi Lancer or motorcycle prior to the crash or who witnessed the crash to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report the information online at www.crimestopperswa.com.au .

The accident came just 24 hours after Palmer was thrown out of Gloucester Park trots following an incident involving a shoe being thrown at racing horses.

Footage emerged online of a barefoot Palmer pleading his case to security staff.

He later took to social media to explain his side of the incident.

Palmer played 123 games for Fremantle, GWS and Carlton from 2008-17.

He won the 2008 AFL Rising Star award after an excellent first season for the Dockers.