Exford Primary School bus crash
Steve McGHIE (Melton) (11:13): At approximately 3:45 pm two weeks ago today the Exford school bus, carrying 45 children and a bus driver, was involved in an accident with a truck in Eynesbury. All the kids were from Exford Primary School. Fourteen students and the bus driver were transported to hospital with serious, traumatic injuries. The other kids were treated at the scene. Four children remain in hospital today. I want to extend my thanks to the bystanders, some passing tradies, for supporting and removing many kids from the bus. The Exford school principal Lisa Campo and assistant principal Craig Wilson and all the staff went into action immediately. They were amazing. To Phillip Coloca, principal at Eynesbury Primary School, and his staff that supported at the scene, thank you. Of course to all the parents and families that arrived to assist and support and continue to deal with such a traumatic event, our thoughts and wishes are with you. To our amazing first responders – police, fire, SES and ambos – thank you very much. To all the hospital staff at the Royal Children’s and Sunshine hospitals, thank you. For all the support from the respected agencies, the surrounding schools and of course the Melton communities in fundraising, providing food, clothing, flowers and gifts, thank you very much. A special mention to Superintendent Michael Cruse for his calmness, leadership and professionalism: thank you.
It was great to go out to Exford Primary School last Friday with the Premier and the Minister for Education just to share some time with the amazing school community. Finally, to Lisa, Craig, teachers, support staff, students and families of Exford Primary School, our thoughts and support will always be with you. Take care.