Covid cluster linked to birthday party

A teen is believed to be in ICU after contracting Covid at an illegal 16th birthday party attended by students from several schools in Melbourne’s north.

Students from an Essendon Catholic girls’ school have tested positive to Covid after blatantly breaching health directions by attending a birthday party.

Students from St Columba’s College in Essendon, as well as pupils from at least two neighbouring schools, have tested positive to Covid after attending a 16th birthday party.

One of the students who attended the party is believed to be in ICU.

It’s understood the group of students attended the party in the past week.

The school’s principal, Rita Grima, told the Herald Sun the student who held the birthday party does not attend the college.

“The information I have is that there were students from three schools at the party and that a number of those students tested positive,” she said.

“When I got the information on Tuesday, I put out a letter to families just to remind them about Covid safety requirements and at this point in time to keep everyone safe.”

Ms Grima said: “There are people who are making decisions that are not following the health advice in general and it’s disappointing”.

“I’ve sent out a notice reminding everyone on the advice of the chief health officer that the best way to protect ourselves and the community is to get vaccinated.”

Ms Grima said the event involved year 10 students from St Columba’s College, as well as students from two other schools.

“I understand the frustrations and disappointments that our young people are facing as milestones come and go marked by a lack of celebration and ceremony. It is important that we support appropriate decision making with our young people.”