Vigil to be held for Daylesford community

A community vigil will be held tonight for the five killed and those injured in the tragic collision at the Royal Hotel in Daylesford on Sunday.

Emergency services were called to reports a BMW SUV had mounted the kerb and struck a number of patrons on the front lawn area of the Royal Hotel on Vincent Street just after 6pm.

Two men and a woman, as well as a child, died at the scene. A female child was flown to hospital where she later died.

A male child was flown to hospital with critical injuries. A man and a woman were transported to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. A male child was also taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

All the victims are yet to be formally identified.

The driver of the BMW, a 66-year-old Mount Macedon man, was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The exact circumstances surrounding the collision are yet to be determined and investigations remain ongoing.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, has CCTV, dashcam footage or any other information, is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

Hepburn Shire Council will be supporting a vigil at the Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre from 6pm tonight. The vigil will be held behind the main building at 13 Camp Street. Everyone is welcomed to attend.

“Hepburn Shire Council offers our deepest condolences to the family and friends of those who were tragically killed and injured as a result of the awful event in Daylesford yesterday,” a council spokesperson said.

“We know there were many witnesses to the event, and that people are likely to be incredibly affected by all that they saw.

“To those who assisted at the scene, we send our heartfelt thanks and gratitude.

“We encourage everyone to support one other during this very difficult time. Help is available via Lifeline on 13 11 14.

“If you are in Daylesford today, we ask that you please be respectful around emergency services in the CBD area. Some detours remain in place.

“This is a terrible event for our close-knit community. We will continue to work with local groups and agencies to offer local support where possible.”

At the vigil, yhere will be representatives from the Victorian Council of Churches, Daylesford Neighbourhood House and various agencies.

Central Highlands Rural Health is also offering counselling to the community. Please phone 5321 6551 for support.