Rapid Machinery founder Bruce Mansell has lost sight in both eyes after his serious car accident.

Mansell, 70, received hundreds of messages of goodwill from around the world after being airlifted to a Sydney hospital on 19 September.

He has now been discharged from hospital into rehabilitation, according to a family spokesperson.

"Sadly, Bruce wants it to be known that he has lost all sight due to the severity of trauma to his eyes," said the spokesperson.

"This is obviously a life-altering event, but, as always, Bruce is staying positive and thankful that his injuries are not more severe.

"As a brilliant engineer in both the label printing machinery field and also in restoring classic automotive marques such as the Lotus Elite, becoming blind is indeed tragic, but Bruce’s resolute positivity and good humour remain undamaged and in full flight."

The spokesperson said that Mansell and his family had been deeply touched by the support they had received from the industry.

[Related: More NSW news]

Comment below to have your say on this story.

If you have a news story or tip-off, get in touch at editorial@sprinter.com.au.  

Sign up to the Sprinter newsletter