Driver escapes injury after car plunges over embankment at Oxley Beach Reserve, Port Macquarie

The 80-year-old man was travelling south along Pacific Drive when police believe it is likely he suffered a medical episode.

Acting Inspector Clint Smallwood said the vehicle veered sharply off the road and hit a steel barricade before plunging east down the reserve embankment.

The vehicle came to rest on a steep incline 30-40 metres down the headland near Windmill Hill stopping just metres from the Coastal Walk footpath below, Acting Inspector Smallwood confirmed.

“He managed to get himself out of the car down there and was treated on scene by paramedics,” he said.

The man was stretchered via the walkway before being taken to Port Macquarie Base Hospital for assessment.

Police, Fire and Rescue NSW and NSW Ambulance paramedics were on scene.

There was extensive damage to the car.

A tow truck arrived on scene within half an hour to commence the vehicle’s retrieval.