Thirty years after the devastating Boondall bus crash, Maryborough is set to honour the victims and survivors with a memorial service. The tragic incident, which occurred near Boondall on Brisbane’s northside, remains one of Queensland’s worst road accidents.
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On Thursday, October 24th, the lawn of Maryborough City Hall will host a solemn gathering to commemorate the lives lost and forever changed by the 1994 crash.
On 24 October 1994, a tragic incident occurred when a vehicle transporting fifty individuals lost control, flipped onto its side, and careened across a major road before plummeting down a sharp incline. The devastating Boondall bus crash resulted in 12 fatalities and left 38 people wounded.
The victims, many of whom were members of Maryborough’s Civilian Widows Association on a shopping trip to Brisbane, will be remembered in a half-hour service beginning at 10:00 a.m.
The service, to be held near the Boondall Bus Memorial Stone on the City Hall lawn, will feature Pastor Chris Foley presiding and performances by the combined choirs of St Mary’s Primary School and St Mary’s College. A poignant moment will occur at 10:10 a.m. when a bell will toll 12 times, marking the time of the accident and honouring those who perished.
Attendees will have the opportunity to lay wreaths or flowers in memory of their loved ones. Following the outdoor service, the community is invited to gather inside City Hall to share memories and support one another.
As the event coincides with market day, those planning to attend are advised to allow extra time for parking. The city council has also made provisions for limited seating for those unable to stand and has plans to move the service indoors in case of inclement weather.
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While RSVPs are not mandatory, interested attendees can register with Customer Service at 1300 79 49 29 to help local officials estimate attendance numbers.
Published 20-September-2024