Tragedy Strikes in Stonehaven School Bus Crash
A heartbreaking tragedy has unfolded in regional Victoria after a school bus carrying 28 students from Christian College Geelong rolled over near Stonehaven, just west of Geelong, on Wednesday morning. Sadly, one young girl lost her life at the scene, while many others were rushed to hospital with injuries.
The crash happened around 8:20am as the bus was turning onto the Hamilton Highway. Police have confirmed that a 76-year-old man from Hamlyn Heights was driving the vehicle at the time. He sustained minor injuries, was taken to hospital, and has since been discharged. He is now assisting investigators as they work to piece together how the rollover occurred.
Emergency services rushed to the scene within minutes. Eight paramedic units, including two helicopters, intensive care crews, and advanced life support teams, were deployed. A boy was flown to hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries, while several others were transported to both University Hospital Geelong and the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne. Some children were treated for injuries, while others were admitted for observation to ensure their wellbeing.
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The atmosphere around the school and local community has been described as deeply distressing. Dr. Mathilda Joubert, executive principal of Christian College Geelong, released a statement expressing the school’s grief. She said the entire school community is devastated, confirming that one of their students had tragically lost their life. “Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with the families impacted. We are supporting them through this incredibly difficult time,” she said.
Political leaders have also shared their condolences. Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan called it a “dark and difficult week” and praised first responders for their professionalism and compassion. Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles, who represents the area, said his “heart breaks” for the student’s family and friends, adding that the incident will be felt across the entire Geelong community. The Victorian opposition has also expressed its sorrow, emphasising the importance of student safety.
The Hamilton Highway was closed in both directions as police and emergency crews worked at the scene. Motorists were advised to use alternative routes, including the Princes Highway and Geelong Ring Road, until the road was cleared.
Stonehaven, a quiet semi-rural community of around 80 residents, has suddenly found itself at the center of this devastating tragedy. For the families of those children, life has been irreversibly changed. For the broader community, it is a painful reminder of how quickly routine mornings can turn into moments of unimaginable loss.
The investigation into the cause of the crash is still ongoing. For now, the focus remains on supporting the students, families, and first responders who have been directly affected by this heartbreaking event.
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