Nursery worker dies after saving children as tanker crashed into playground

A heroic nursery worker tragically lost her life after bravely pushing children to safety when a large water tanker crashed into a playground in Australia.

Eleanor Bryant, 43, acted quickly to shield the children at Macedon Ranges Montessori Pre-School in Victoria on Monday afternoon, local reports said. Ms Bryant, a speech pathologist and mother of two, died after the driver of the tanker experienced a medical emergency, leading to the devastating accident.

A three-year-old boy was hospitalised with serious injuries to his arm, but, miraculously, no other children were harmed. Police described the absence of further casualties as "unbelievable," noting that the situation "could have been a lot worse."

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Detective Senior Sergeant Christian Von Tuk called it a “tragic” incident, as several children and staff were nearby in the playground area. "This is one of those close calls," he said, "where it’s hard to believe only one life was lost today." He confirmed that the incident appeared to be an accident with no deliberate intent involved.

While the nursery building itself was undamaged, the tanker destroyed the playground equipment, flattening structures within the area.

“I dare say there’ll be some kids getting squeezed very tightly tonight,” Sergeant Von Tuk added.

The truck involved belonged to McKenzie Water. The owner of the business, Alan McKenzie, said the 68-year-old driver of the vehicle had suffered a medical episode., reports the Mirror. In a statement, he said: “We are in shock and offer our heartfelt condolences to everyone involved.

“As a small, family-owned business, we are devastated following the tragic crash … this is an incredibly distressing time, and our deepest sympathies go to those involved and their families and friends.

“Sadly, one person has lost their life, and a child has been injured. Our experienced 68-year-old driver is understood to have suffered a medical episode and remains in hospital. We are doing what we can to support him and his family. We thank staff and emergency workers who responded. We are assisting authorities with their investigations.

“McKenzie Water has been operating in Melbourne and Victoria for 40 years, and our priority has always been safety and compliance.”

Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas said it was “a terrible incident”, adding: "Our thoughts are with the family of the victims and the broader Riddells Creek community. We thank our first responders who are on scene investigating and helping those injured.”

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