Soldiers tumbled metres to the ground at Australia’s largest defence base.

Stand collapse at Townsville Lavarack Barracks injures at least 40 people. Credit: 7NEWS

Dozens of soldiers have been injured after a makeshift grandstand gave way during a group photograph, sending troops tumbling metres to the ground at Australia’s largest army base.

Defence confirmed the incident on Friday involved members of the 3rd Brigade at Lavarack Barracks in Townsville, north Queensland.

“During a routine group photograph, a temporary grandstand became unstable, resulting in a number of soldiers falling and sustaining non-life-threatening injuries,” a Defence spokesperson said.

Several members of the Calvary unit were treated on base at the Lavarack Health Centre, while others were transported to local hospitals for further assessment and treatment.

The Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) dispatched 12 crews to the scene, assessing at least 40 people, mainly for cuts and abrasions.

“Defence is monitoring the situation closely and is providing support to affected troops and their families as our highest priority,” the spokesperson said.

“An investigation into the incident will be conducted.”

Originally published on 7NEWS