Paramedics have treated a driver for critical injuries after a bus hit two camels near Rockhampton in central Queensland.
The Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) was called to the incident on Emu Park Road and Thompson Point Road at Nankin about 5:15am.
Police described the crash as "serious" and closed the road in both directions, urging motorists to avoid the area.
Camel racer and breeder John Richardson said police notified him of the incident involving his animals.
Mr Richardson confirmed two of his camels had been killed.
"I'm just devastated," he said.
"It's just shocking.
He said he was mystified how the animals got out.
"I couldn't work (it) out . they don't try to get out (normally)," he said.
Mr Richardson said he had since walked his fence line and discovered a gate off its hinges.
"I've never had a gate come off like that," he said.
"It's not like they're chasing feed. I've just bought round bales and I've got more round bales arrived this morning."