The devastating incident that shook the community of Devonport, Tasmania, is still fresh in the minds of many.
It’s been over three years since a freak wind swept through Hillcrest Primary School, carrying a jumping castle across the oval, resulting in the tragic deaths of six children and injuring three others.
The community is now waiting with bated breath as a magistrate is set to rule on whether the incident was a result of a criminal act.
A Day That Will Never Be Forgotten
On December 16, 2021, the lives of nine Tasmanian families were changed forever.
A “mini tornado” tore through the school grounds, causing the deaths of Zane Mellor, Peter Dodt, Jalailah Jayne-Maree Jones, Addison Stewart, Jye Sheehan, and Chace Harrison. The incident left the community in shock, and the families of the victims are still grappling with the aftermath.
The Road to Justice
Almost two years after the tragedy, Rosemary Anne Gamble, the owner of Taz-Zorb, the company that supplied the jumping castle, was charged with a category two offence under the Work Health and Safety Act.
She pleaded not guilty, and a two-week hearing was held in November 2024. The Crown prosecution presented its case, alleging that Ms. Gamble failed to comply with her duty, exposing the children to a risk of death or serious injury.
The Allegations and Arguments
The court heard that Ms. Gamble’s company had been contracted by the school to provide the amusement devices for the end-of-year celebration.
The jumping castle was secured to the ground with four 30-centimetre pegs, despite having eight possible tether points.
The prosecution argued that Ms. Gamble failed to formally train herself or her staff and that the use of star pickets, which were available on the day, could have prevented the tragedy.
However, the defence argued that the incident was a freakish and unpredictable weather event, and that nothing Ms. Gamble could have done would have prevented it.
A Courtroom Filled with Emotion
The families of the victims attended the hearing, watching as witnesses presented their evidence and answered the questions. Courtroom was filled with emotion, as parents cried and embraced each other, struggling to come to terms with the details of their child’s last moments. The families’ grief was palpable, and at times, their anger boiled over.
What’s Next?
Magistrate Robert Webster will hand down a decision in the case at a later date. If found guilty, Ms. Gamble faces a maximum fine of $300,000.
However, the families will soon be back in court as a coronial inquest is slated to begin once the criminal proceedings conclude.
The families have also launched a civil class action against the state of Tasmania and Ms. Gamble, alleging that they had a duty of care and failed to take reasonable precautions to ensure the children’s safety.
Support for Those Affected
If you or anyone you know needs help, there are resources available:
Lifeline: 13 11 14
Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800
Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467
Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636
Headspace: 1800 650 890
ReachOut: au.reachout.com
This tragic incident has left a lasting impact on the community, and the road to justice is long and arduous.
The families of the victims will continue to seek answers and closure, and the community will come together to support them every step of the way.