A devastating school bus accident occurred in Stonehaven, west of Melbourne, on Wednesday morning, resulting in the death of a young girl and injuries to multiple others.
The bus, carrying 28 students from primary to secondary school age, rolled over on the Hamilton Highway at around 8:20 am.
One girl tragically died at the scene, while a boy was airlifted to hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries.
Multiple Injuries and Hospitalisations
The 76-year-old bus driver, from Hamlyn Heights, was taken to hospital along with eight students, who suffered various injuries.
A further 11 students were transported to hospital for observation.
Ambulance Victoria deployed eight paramedic units, including helicopters, intensive care, and advanced life support crews, to the scene.
Patients were taken to University Hospital Geelong and the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne.
Investigation Underway and Community Response
The driver, now discharged from hospital, is cooperating with authorities in their investigation into the accident.
The Hamilton Highway was closed in both directions, with motorists advised to use alternative routes.
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan expressed her condolences to the students, their families, and the school community, offering support in any way possible.
Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles, who represents the federal electorate of Geelong, also paid his respects to the victim’s family.
The opposition extended their condolences, with Shadow Education Minister Jess Wilson reaffirming the importance of student safety and wellbeing in educational settings.