Charges Laid in Tragic 2021 Hillcrest Jumping Castle Incident Resulting in Six Deaths

Introduction

In a significant development following the tragic 2021 incident at Hillcrest Primary School in Devonport, Tasmania, where six children lost their lives, the operator of the jumping castle, Taz-Zorb, has been charged. This follows an extensive investigation by WorkSafe Tasmania.

Details of the Incident

On December 16, 2021, during an end-of-year event, six children tragically died and three were seriously injured when a jumping castle and inflatable balls became airborne due to a gust of wind. The children fell from a height of about 10 meters, according to eyewitness reports.

Operational Context

The incident, which has deeply affected the school and wider community, led to a comprehensive investigation by WorkSafe Tasmania. The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has filed a complaint, charging Taz-Zorb with a Category 2 offence under the Work Health and Safety Act 2012 for failing to comply with a health and safety duty.

Court’s Decision and Impact on Victims

The decision to press charges was made after careful consideration of a vast array of documents and investigation findings. Families of the victims have expressed gratitude for the hard work of the investigators and first responders, while still seeking further answers and justice. The maximum penalty for a category 2 offence is substantial, highlighting the severity of the incident.