Canberra: Central Coast Grammar Year 6 student critically injured by falling branch at Government House
A Year 6 student has been rushed to hospital in a critical condition and at least two more taken for observation after a tree branch collapsed on a group of students at Government House.
Central Coast
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A Year 6 student has been rushed to hospital in a critical condition and at least two more taken for observation after a tree branch collapsed on a group of students at Government House.
Emergency services were called to the home of Australia’s Governor-General on Wednesday following reports a tree limb had fallen on students from Central Coast Grammar School.
The students were visiting the nation’s capital as part of a time-honoured annual Year 6 camp enjoyed by thousands of coast students every year.
An Office of the Official Secretary to the Governor-General spokesman said the branch fell from a tree in the area outside the gates of Government House.
“The branch struck several students who had recently completed a tour of Government House,” the spokesman said.
“First aid was rendered on site by AFP officers before some students were taken, via ambulance, to The Canberra Hospital.
“The office understands that one student was in a critical condition. The thoughts of the Governor-General and everyone at the office are with the student, their family and loved ones, and the entire school community. The Office is in contact with the school and will not be providing any further comment.”
It is understood trees on the grounds and the area outside Government House are inspected regularly and that this tree had been assessed as healthy within the last six months.
An ACT Ambulance spokeswoman said when paramedics arrived they found one young person had suffered “critical injuries” while two more were treated at the scene for minor injuries.
She said all three were taken to hospital.
In a message to parents, Central Coast Grammar principal Phil O’Regan said arrangements were made to take the remaining students home on Thursday, a day earlier than scheduled.
“While on the excursion, a limb from a tree fell and struck a group of students,” he wrote.
“Emergency services were immediately called to the location. One student has been taken to hospital for urgent medical attention, while three others were also transported to hospital for assessment and treatment.
“In addition, two students were assessed at the scene by paramedics and returned to the group.”
Mr O’Regan said the school was in close contact with the families of the students directly affected, while additional counselling support was being provided to the students at the camp accommodation.
It is understood the students were staying at Canberra Park, a caravan park 6km from the CBD.
More to come.
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