Waterfall drop drama

A MAN is lucky to be alive after falling about 20m from a steep waterfall near Cairns.

The 23-year-old fell from Crystal Cascades waterfall and crashed into rocks before tumbling into the water yesterday afternoon.

Bystanders performed basic first aid until rescue teams arrived, Queensland Ambulance Services senior operations supervisor Neil Noble said.

“This gentleman is extremely lucky to be alive ... we have had fatalities at the same waterfall,” Mr Noble said.

The man suffered a suspected fractured leg, possible fractured pelvis and spinal injuries.