News Obiaks News

In a heart-wrenching incident, a bus crash in the NSW Hunter Valley has claimed the lives of ten individuals, with several more sustaining injuries. The tragic accident occurred overnight, causing profound sorrow in the region.

Emergency services swiftly responded to the scene on Wine Country Drive in Greta shortly after 11:30 pm. The bus, reportedly carrying a group returning from a wedding at the renowned Wandin Estate winery venue, rolled over on a roundabout near the Hunter Expressway. The circumstances surrounding the crash are still under investigation, as authorities await further details.

Cessnock mayor, Jay Suvaal, expressed his condolences and shared, "We're still waiting for further details to come to light as the investigations continue. We don't know the circumstances around the crash at the moment. But it does appear it was a wedding chartered bus that had been coming from a wedding earlier that day."

Tragically, ten lives have been lost in the accident, and the toll could potentially rise. Currently, 25 injured individuals have been transported to John Hunter and Maitland hospitals, as well as Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in Sydney. The bus driver, a 58-year-old man, has been hospitalized under police supervision for mandatory assessment.

As investigations unfold, a comprehensive response team comprising police, traffic and highway patrol, paramedics, fire and rescue personnel, and helicopters for hospital transfers has been mobilized. The crash site has been declared a crime scene, and efforts to determine the cause of the tragedy are underway.

The management of the wedding venue expressed deep sorrow upon hearing the news, offering their heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the victims. They assured that support would be provided to affected guests while respecting their privacy during this challenging time.

Acting Assistant Commissioner Tracy Chapman announced the arrest of the driver following mandatory testing. She emphasized that a thorough investigation would be conducted to provide closure and comfort to grieving families and the public. The possibility of any children being on board remains unlikely, according to police.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese extended his deepest sympathies to those affected by the tragedy, acknowledging the shock and sadness felt by the entire NSW community, particularly in the Hunter region. He assured that assistance would be provided, with the NSW premier en route to offer support.

NSW Member for Cessnock Clayton Barr expressed gratitude to the first responders and highlighted the united efforts of emergency services and police during this devastating event. The community, shocked by the tragedy, stands in solidarity with the families and friends affected.

Wine Country Drive, between the New England Highway and Bridge Street in Branxton, is closed in both directions, and motorists are advised to seek alternative routes. The closures are expected to remain in place for an extended period.

This heartrending bus crash serves as a reminder of the fragility of life, and the community mourns the loss of ten individuals while rallying together to support one another in this time of immense grief.