Hillcrest student Zane Mellor farewelled in moving service at Devonport

As the victims of Hillcrest’s jumping castle tragedy last week begin to be farewelled, there is also good news with the two young boys still in hospital staging a remarkable recovery. LATEST >>

TWELVE-year-old Zane Mellor, one of six children killed in last week’s jumping castle tragedy, has been farewelled at a service in Devonport as the two boys still in hospital show positive signs of a recovery.

The Mersey Garden Chapel was filled to capacity with those paying their respects flowing out into a marquee to listen to Zane’s family tell of his love of gaming, dinosaurs, camping and fishing.

“I little knew that morning, God was going to call your name,” a poem read by his mother Georgie Gardam said,

“In life I loved you dearly in death I do the same.”

Zane Mellor has been farewelled at a ceremony in Devonport.

Zane’s coffin was decorated with gaming motifs and many members of his family wore dinosaur tee shirts in honour of his gaming name “Jurassic Zane.”

“Even as a baby you were full on,” his mum said.

“Zane had some challenges but his quirks made him who he was.

“I was so young when I had you. We almost grew up together. I spoilt you rotten and I have no regrets.”

Georgie Gardam, centre, is comforted at the funeral of her son Zane Mellor at the Mersey Gardens Chapel and Crematorium. Picture: AAP

Zane loved getting out into nature with his dad Tim and his grandfather.

“Dad loved showing and teaching him the best things in life can be free,” the celebrant said.

“He loved the beach and was a caring big brother.”

Zane was one of six children fatally injured when zorb balls and a jumping castle were lifted into the air by a feak gust of wind at Hillcrest Primary last Thursday.

The Grade 5 and 6 students were enjoying activities on the oval as part of an end of year celebration.

Another three were injured. One has been released from hospital while two boys remain in medical care.

About 40 other children witnessed the event.

Premier Peter Gutwein said his thoughts were with Zane’s family, friends, classmates and the entire Hillcrest community.

“I know they remain in the thoughts and prayers of all Tasmanians,” Mr Gutwein said.

“On a more positive note, the two boys in the Royal Hobart Hospital are steadily improving and are now in stable condition, I understand, and have been moved out of the ICU.

“I’m certain that all Tasmanians will join me in sending their thoughts and wishes to their families at this time at what is no doubt a very difficult set of circumstances but it’s pleasing and I know that we are all very thankful that they are out of ICU and are in a much better condition.”

Hillcrest student Declean recovers in hospital following the jumping castle tragedy in Devonport. Pic: Facebook.

Hillcrest student Declean recovers in hospital following the jumping castle tragedy in Devonport. Pic: Facebook.

The uncle of a boy named Declean put a post on Facebook saying he had “put up one hell of a fight” and was now awake.

“He has a long road ahead,” David Best said.

“Well done little dude and enjoy your requested pizza.

“My heart still breaks for the families that lose their loved ones.”

Zane’s classmate Jye Sheehan will be farewelled at 10.30am on Friday at the Mersey Gardens Chapel.

The four other children will be formally farewelled after Christmas.

Originally published as Hillcrest student Zane Mellor farewelled in moving service at Devonport