GoFundMe fundraiser launched as Warialda's Peter King, 16, remains critical in Brisbane hospital after welding accident

Peter King, 16, was helping a mate at a property north of Warialda last Sunday afternoon when he was injured while welding close to a drum of oil, according to the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.

The teenager was airlifted to the burns unit at Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital after the accident, and remains there in what his family has described to the Leader as a critical but stable condition.

Peter's family member Joan Hamilton has set up a GoFundMe page to help raise money for the teenager's ongoing medical costs as he faces a long stint in hospital and an even longer road to recovery.

Ms Hamilton said the devastating effect Peter's "horrific" accident has had on his family is hard to put into words.

READ ALSO:

"It's been extremely stressful," she said.

"It's a day by day thing, and just trying to keep positive."

She said Peter's parents have been by his bedside whenever they can be, but COVID-19 health restrictions have made it difficult for the family, with only a couple of hours of visitation allowed per day.

The fundraiser has already risen past its original target, with more than $9000 already raised by friends, family and those keen to support Peter and his family through this tough time.

"It will all go towards any care that he needs," Ms Hamilton said.

Peter suffered serious burns to more than 80 per cent of his body in the welding accident last week, including to his face, arms and hands, according to the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.

Ms Hamilton said Peter is expected to be in hospital for months to come yet as he recovers, plus lots of rehabilitation afterwards.

The 16-year-old's two siblings and parents will also have to continue travelling between the hospital in Brisbane and their property outside Warialda.

Queensland slammed its border shut to all NSW residents early on Friday morning due to the COVID-19 crisis gripping Sydney, but it's understood the family is fortunately in the so-called "border bubble".

To donate to Peter's fundraising page, visit the GoFundMe website via https://www.gofundme.com/f/haez4w-peter-needs-your-help.

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content: