Emergency services are dealing with a major incident in western Victoria after a school bus carrying children rolled on the Hamilton Highway near Stonehaven on Tuesday afternoon.
The catastrophic rollover occurred approximately 10 kilometres south of Hamilton, triggering a massive emergency response from police, ambulance crews, and fire services. Initial reports indicate multiple injuries among the young passengers.
Emergency Response and Rescue Operation
Ambulance Victoria confirmed they are treating multiple patients at the scene, with paramedics working tirelessly to stabilise casualties. A spokesperson described the incident as "significant" and stated that multiple ambulance units had been dispatched to the location.
Victoria Police have established a crime scene as they begin their investigation into the cause of the rollover. The Hamilton Highway has been closed in both directions between Hensley Park and Tarrington, with motorists being urged to avoid the area entirely.
Community in Shock
Local residents reported hearing the emergency services responding to what they described as a "serious accident." The community of Stonehaven, a small town south of Hamilton, has been shaken by the incident involving local school children.
Parents and guardians are being advised to await official communication from authorities as the situation develops. The school involved has not yet been formally identified as investigations continue.
Transport Safety Investigation Underway
The crash will likely be investigated by both Victoria Police and relevant transport safety authorities to determine the exact circumstances that led to the bus leaving the roadway and rolling.
This incident represents every parent's worst nightmare and has raised immediate questions about rural road safety and school transport protocols in the region.
This story is developing. More details will be provided as official information becomes available.
