A tragic incident at a school fair in Devonport, Tasmania, has left the community heartbroken after six children lost their lives in an accident involving an inflatable bouncy castle. The event occurred on the last day of term in December 2021, when a sudden dust devil, an unexpected swirling vortex of air, lifted the castle and hurled it across the school grounds.
The children, aged between 11 and 12, were attending a fair at Hillcrest Primary School when the disaster struck. Five of the children were playing on the inflatable when the strong winds swept it away. A sixth child, who was waiting in line, was killed when struck by the inflatable blower.
In November 2023, Ms. Gamble, who was responsible for the bouncy castle, faced charges related to the tragedy. Prosecutors claimed she did not secure the inflatable properly, but her defense argued that she took all reasonable steps to minimize risks. Magistrate Robert Webster ultimately sided with the defense, stating that the dust devil was unforeseen and unforeseeable. He acknowledged that while Ms. Gamble could have done more, any additional precautions would not have changed the tragic outcome.
The verdict has left families shattered. Andrew Dodt, father of one of the victims, expressed his grief, saying he only wanted an apology for the loss of his son, Peter. He shared his pain, saying he feels broken and will continue to carry that burden. Ms. Gamble’s lawyer, speaking on her behalf, acknowledged the deep scars left by the incident. She expressed her empathy for the families affected, stating the loss will stay with her forever.
This heartbreaking event has deeply affected the small community of Devonport, which has around 30,000 residents. The loss of these young lives has left an indelible mark, and the echoes of that tragic day will resonate for years to come.