The Prime Minister has released a statement of condolence following the bus crash tragedy in the Hunter Valley last night that has so far claimed the lives of 10 people.
All Australians’ thoughts go out to the family, friends, and loved ones of those lost in such horrific circumstances, said Anthony Albanese this morning.
“And to all those 25 in hospital – they are at John Hunter Hospital, but many have been flown to Sydney for care – we’re thinking of you and sending our best wishes for a recovery.”
“All of us know the joy of going to a wedding, a chance to celebrate dear friends and family. They are some of the happiest times that you can have. For a joyous day like that in a beautiful place to end with such terrible loss of life and injury is so cruel and so sad and so unfair. People hire a bus for weddings in order to keep their guests safe and that just adds to the unimaginable nature of this tragedy.”
The Prime Minister thanked the region’s first responders who were first arrive on the “terrible scene”.
“I can not imagine what they were confronted with, what they had to deal with. But they did as they always did – their job,” he said.
“They did their best looking after people, trying to do their best to save lives, and to assist in the recovery at this horrific scene. So to them, to the doctors and nurses, to the police and emergency services, to those who transported the injured to hospital, I say once again, thank you.
“I say also thank you to those people who will continue to assist in the days, weeks, months and years ahead. The mental scars of this will not go away. They are there forever and we need to make sure that when the spotlight leaves the care doesn’t, for people who have witnessed this and for people who have experienced this tragedy firsthand.”
The bus overturned while navigating a lefthand turn on a roundabout near Greta, as it was transporting guests from a nearby wedding at 11.30pm last night. Police have arrested the 58-year-old driver and he has been taken to Cessnock police station, where he is expected to be charged.
He said the Government would provide whatever support is necessary to the families as details of the deadly crash become clearer.
“For now, we’re thinking of you. Australia wraps its arms around you. And Australians’ hopes and prayers are with you on this tragic day. Thank you.”
NSW Police are still working to identify the crash victims and contact their next of kin.
Family and friends of a person who may have been on board the bus are urged to contact Cessnock Police Station on 02 4991 0199.
Witnesses – or anyone with information relevant to the circumstances surrounding the crash – are urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 to keep the line to Cessnock Police Station clear for concerned family members.
