A crowd of several hundred has come together this morning to commemorate the first year anniversary since the tragedy that claimed the lives of five people in Daylesford on November 5 last year.

Family members and loved ones of those who lost their lives when a car slammed into people in the then beer garden outside the town’s Royal Hotel were among those who attended today’s commemorative event.

Emergency service personnel, Hepburn Shire Council representatives including the CEO Bradley Thomas, and members of the wider community were among those who have gathered to remember and pay their respects.

Last month a court heard that driver, William Swale, 66, was in the midst of a diabetic episode when his SUV crashed into a crowd of people seated in the beer garden of the historic hotel, killing five people including two children.

Bradley Thomas, Hepburn Shire Council CEO: “Today’s commemoration paid respect to the profound loss experienced by many, but also the incredible courage showed on that day to be there for those in their suffering. Their compassion and care for those in need in those moments means more than any words or tributes could ever express.”

Words & Images: Donna Kelly

Daylesford and the wider community are preparing to come together to mark the anniversary of last November’s tragic car crash that claimed the lives of five people.

The upcoming commemoration, marking one year since the tragic incident, is being held at 9am next Tuesday, November 5, outside Dayleford’s Royal Hotel, near the site of last November’s tragedy.

On November 5 last year, just after 6pm, a car driven by diabetic William Swale crashed into the then beer garden area, killing Point Cook lawyer and volunteer, 44-year-old Pratibha Sharma, her 9-year-old daughter Anvi and 30-year-old husband Jatin Kumar, and also Vivek Bhatia, 38, and his 11-year-old son Vihaan.

Hepburn Shire Council CEO Bradley Thomas says that next Tuesday the community is gathering not only to remember those lost but to support one another through the healing process. 

“This tragedy has forever changed our community, but it has also brought us closer, showing the power of unity, compassion, and resilience,” he said.  

The tragedy deeply shook the community and region, leaving a lasting impact. Next Tuesday’s commemoration will be a solemn occasion to acknowledge the profound loss felt by families and friends while also recognising the strength and compassion that the community has displayed over the past year.  

“This gathering serves as a reminder that the bonds of community can provide comfort and support even in times of immense tragedy,” Mr Thomas said. 

The commemoration will take place outside the Royal Hotel Daylesford at 9am. Members of the public are welcome to attend.  

The town’s Albert Street will be blocked to traffic between Howe Street and Duke Street from 8am to 10am, during the commemorative community event.