In June 2023, the Hunter Valley bus crash sent shockwaves throughout Australia. Ten individuals lost their lives, many others were injured and the country was left pondering how such a disaster could occur. Coupled with the more recent Stonehaven bus crash in Victoria, which resulted in the tragic death of a 12-year-old schoolgirl, these incidents have sparked urgent discussions regarding bus safety.
John Gaffney, the father of the groom whose son sustained injuries in the Hunter Valley crash, has been actively advocating for change since the incident. He reflects and discusses the experience and the existing safety protocols on buses — especially concerning seatbelt usage.
And a warning this story contains content that some listeners may find distressing.
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Image: Image: Shutterstock – Black_Kira
Produced By: Thomas Koutis
Featured In Story: John Gaffney – Retired Engineer in Traffic and Road Safety Engineering, Father Of The Groom Who Was Injured In The 2023 Hunter Valley Wedding Bus Crash
First aired on The Wire, Thursday 11 September 2025