School launches fund to help family from tragic crash

A SCHOOL has launched an appeal to help the family at the centre of the traffic crash near Toowoomba that claimed the life of a 37-year-old mother and her son.

A SCHOOL has launched an appeal to help the family at the centre of the traffic crash near Toowoomba that claimed the life of a 37-year-old mother and her son.

Christine Leonardi, better known as Sam, was killed when the 4WD she was driving collided with a crane truck.

Her six-year-old son Samuel was also killed.

Mrs Leonardi's daughters, 11 and 7, were seriously injured in the crash.

Mrs Leonardi, 37, and her husband John studied at Stanthorpe State High School, but spent their recent years living in Toowoomba.

The family still has strong ties to the Stanthorpe community.

St Joseph's School Stanthorpe has established a fund to assist in the family's recovery, which includes ongoing support for seven-year-old Felicity.

School principal Dr Michael McCarthy, in a letter to parents, said the school's prayers were with the family.

"The degree of sadness and grief the family must be experiencing at this time is inconceivable," he said.

"However, in the midst of this sadness, I have been warmed by the strong expressions of support for the family, and willingness to offer some assistance."

Donations can be made at:

• Cheque - make payable to St Joseph's School
• Cash - in person at the school office
• Direct deposit - Commonweath Bank, BSB: 064-431, Account #: 10184376, Reference: Leonardi Fund

Originally published as School launches fund to help family from tragic crash