In a tragic incident that has left the community in mourning, a 25-year-old man has been charged following a fatal minibus crash on the Calder Highway, resulting in the deaths of two passengers and injuring nine others. The accident occurred on Tuesday morning, 25 June 2024, 30km south of Mildura.
The Incident
The minibus, which was traveling south along the Calder Highway, veered off the road, struck a tree, and rolled onto its side. The crash claimed the lives of two passengers—a 43-year-old man and a 34-year-old man—and left nine others injured, prompting an outpouring of grief from the community and loved ones.
Victims and Their Families
Among those who lost their lives were Siu Manu, a father of three and a respected Matai (chief) in Samoa, and Siaosi Faamoana, who had journeyed to Australia seeking better opportunities for his family.
Siu Manu
Siu Manu’s sister, Tuuinaifo Tu’ua Manu, shared the family's heartbreak with 7NEWS.com.au, stating, “Siu was a very kind person, and we don’t know how to forget him.” Siu, one of eight siblings, had been the primary caregiver for their elderly mother. His sudden death is the first loss among the siblings, making it a particularly devastating blow to the family. Siu spent most of the year in Samoa but traveled to Australia for seasonal work. His untimely passing has left his wife and three children in deep sorrow. To support them, Siu’s loved ones have launched a GoFundMe campaign.
Siaosi Faamoana
As reported from local Newspaper Samoa Global, Siaosi Faamoana’s mother, Vaotuli Seaalii Aliasa, expressed her grief over losing her son, who had significantly contributed to the family’s well-being. “Siaosi brought us many blessings. Our family is now stable because of his hard work. His last gift to me was a car,” Vaotuli said tearfully. Siaosi, who hailed from Poutasi Falealili, had been working in Australia to provide for his family back home. His sudden death has left a void that his family struggles to comprehend.
Injuries and Hospitalisation
The crash also left nine passengers injured:
The male bus driver and one passenger are in critical condition.
Three passengers suffered serious injuries.
Four others were taken to Mildura Base Hospital for observation.
Legal Proceedings
The driver of the minibus has been charged with two counts of dangerous driving causing death and five counts of dangerous driving causing serious injury. He is scheduled to appear in Mildura Magistrates’ Court on Thursday afternoon. The charges highlight the severity of the incident and the dire consequences of negligent driving.
Community and Family Support
The loss of Siu Manu and Siaosi Faamoana has profoundly impacted their families and communities both in Samoa and Australia. As the community grapples with this tragedy, efforts are being made to support the affected families and ensure the injured receive the best possible care.
Official Statements and Community Response
Police confirmed that all passengers were employed at nearby farms, and many were from Samoa. The Major Collision Investigation Unit is working diligently to uncover the exact circumstances leading to the crash. A spokesperson from the investigation unit conveyed their condolences: “We extend our heartfelt sympathies to the families of Siu Manu and Siaosi Faamoana and wish a speedy recovery to those injured. This incident highlights the critical importance of road safety.”
I strongly believe those Companies that employ the seasonal workers from the Islands should make sure the drivers who drive the workers must be Australian citizens with full licence and must be those who are quite familiar with the areas. They should never allow those from the islands with overseas full licence to drive as we all know in the island we don't have MOTORWAYS or FREE HIGHWAYS so our island people can only drive in normal roads with low speed. Just an opinion to reduce our loved ones from dying in foreign lands