Bridge fall leaves Qld mum brain damaged

A Cairns mother who police believe fell two metres off a bridge after a day at the races in far north Queensland will be left with permanent brain damage if she survives.

Police found Claire Tucker lying critically injured in a drain at the bottom of a pedestrian bridge on Saturday night after attending the Cairns Cup Races.

More than $15,000 has so far been pledged on a GoFundMe page that aims to raise $100,000 to help the mother of five-year-old Zephyr.

The 36-year-old remains in a coma with broken bones in her neck, back and spine, and friend Selina Taylor, who started the fundraiser, says her injuries are so severe she will "have some permanent brain damage".

She says Ms Tucker is a "kind-hearted" and "generous" beautician who's involved in the community and runs her own small business.

"All those that cross her path fall in love with her infectious and energetic nature," Ms Taylor wrote on the GoFundMe page.

Another friend, Marita McCourt described her friend in a Facebook post as the type of person who "would move mountains for others".

On Monday police appealed to witnesses and drivers who may have dash-cam footage of the incident.

She was last seen walking along Mulgrave Rd towards the Cairns CBD about 7.15pm.

Donations can be made at https://www.gofundme.com/claire-tucker-needs-your-help.