Australia's bus industry is reeling today as transport leaders have shared messages of condolences for the families of those involved in the Hunter Valley bus crash that left 10 people dead on Sunday night
As police continue to investigate a bus crash near Greta in the Hunter Valley on Sunday night in which 10 people died and 25 others were taken to hospital for treatment, the bus industry has come out in support of the passengers and their families.
The Bus Industry Confederation (BIC) released a statement via its LinkedIn page extending its deepest sympathies to all involved.
“Our deepest condolences to the families, friends and loved ones of those who have been killed and those who have been injured in the Hunter Valley Bus Crash. A terrible tragedy,” BIC says.
Social media channels have also been swamped with messages of support for the families involved in the tradegy and for the first responders who attended the scene.
The crash, following just months after another bus crash involving school children in Victoria, has put the issue of seat belts on buses and seat belt laws back in the spotlight.
The Transport Workers’ Union (TWU) says the horrific crash highlights the need for reform to keep heavy vehicle drivers and passengers safer on Australian roads.
“The community has been deeply affected by this horrifying and heart-wrenching incident, as families, friends and neighbours grapple with the loss of their loved ones,” TWU NSW / QLD state secretary Richard Olsen says.
“Our thoughts at this time go to those impacted by the aftermath of this shocking incident.
“We wish those injured all the best on their path to recovery and as they come to terms with this incident, and to the families of those killed, we are sending our thoughts during this extremely difficult time.”
While there are a number of details which have not yet come to light, Olsen says the TWU does know that the immense impact of the event will last within that community for a long time and that it highlights the immense need for reform within the transport industry.
“The importance of prioritising the safety of drivers, passengers and the broader community is urgent, and this devastating incident underscores the critical need for increased safety measures on our roads,” Olsen says.
“We must work collectively to prevent such accidents and safeguard the lives of our community members.”
Olsen says the crash was the latest event to highlight the dangers involved in the transport industry.
“Transport is Australia’s deadliest industry. Just last month we saw at least two major bus crashes in Victoria and just this year there have been more than 100 truck drivers killed on Australian roads,” he says.
As at the time of publication the driver of the bus faces 11 charges, including 10 counts of dangerous driving occasioning death.