Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff has paid tribute to the victims of the Hillcrest jumping castle tragedy on its third anniversary.
Chace Harrison, Jalailah Jayne-Maree Jones, Zane Mellor, Addison Stewart, Jye Sheehan and Peter Dodt lost their lives in the incident on December 16, 2021.
The children were celebrating the end of the school year when a strong gust of wind lifted the jumping castle and zorb balls they were in into the air at Hillcrest Primary School in Devonport.
“Today is a most difficult and heartfelt time for so many in our community,” Rockliff said on Monday.
“I know I speak for all Tasmanians when I extend my thoughts, prayers and condolences to the families, friends, children and community impacted by the Hillcrest tragedy.”
The Premier also acknowledged the first responders and medical professionals who provided care to the victims in the aftermath.
“We will continue to support all those in the community whose lives changed forever,” he said.
“Always in our thoughts and hearts.”
Families of the victims have launched a class action against the state as the operator of the school and jumping castle operator Taz-Zorb, alleging they had a duty of care to the students.
The suit will argue they failed to take reasonable steps to prevent harm.
