The motorway was closed for approximately 10 hours, reopening at 3:00 PM after emergency services and cleanup crews worked to clear the roadway.

The NRMA dispatched additional patrols and tow trucks to assist stranded drivers, but wait times for help reached nearly two hours due to the overwhelming number of calls.

On May 2, 2025, a truck carrying scrap metal lost its load on the M1 motorway into Sydney around 5:00 AM, leading to a significant traffic jam and extensive damage to vehicles.

The spill caused punctured tyres on hundreds of vehicles, resulting in a traffic backup that extended nearly 30 kilometers, affecting at least 300 cars and some emergency vehicles.

New South Wales Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison reported that up to 380 vehicles may have been impacted, describing the situation as unprecedented due to the nature of the debris.

The debris, identified as 'flock,' was caused by the truck losing its load during transport, which authorities later confirmed was due to the back door of the truck opening.

State police confirmed that the truck driver is cooperating with the investigation, while the trucking company, NJ Ashton, has apologized and is assisting with cleanup efforts.

NJ Ashton acknowledged their responsibility for the incident and stated that all reasonable costs for damages would be covered by their insurance policy.

Reactions on social media varied, with some praising the trucking company for taking responsibility while others expressed frustration over missed appointments and travel disruptions.

Heavy vehicle inspectors, tow trucks, and cleanup crews were dispatched to assist affected drivers, many of whom were stranded in the breakdown lane.

Cleanup efforts involved using magnetic sweepers to collect the small metal pieces, making the process complex and time-consuming.

All southbound traffic was diverted onto the Pacific Highway, and police advised motorists to find alternative routes as the situation unfolded.