‘Hero’ teacher died saving kids during crash

A kindergarten teacher died after pushing children out of the way when a truck crashed through the fence in Melbourne’s northwest.

A water tanker was driving along Main Road in Riddells Creek when it crashed near the Macedon Ranges Montessori Preschool about 2.20pm on Monday.

Kindergarten teacher Eleanor Bryant, 43, died at the scene after pushing children out of the way

A three-year-old boy was taken to the Royal Childrens Hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries.

The mother-of-two had moved to Riddells Creek after five years living in Melbourne, having earlier made the move from NSW.

Member for Menzies Keith Wolahan issued a tribute to Ms Bryant in a Facebook post, branding her a “hero”.

“Eleanor Bryant is a hero who sacrificed her life to save children in her care. I hope her family finds comfort in her courage. May she rest in peace,” Mr Wolahan wrote.

Detective Senior Sergeant Christian Von Tuk said it was a “tragic” incident that “could have been a lot worse” as a number of children and staff were in and near the playground area.

“This is one of those close calls that I don’t know how only one person has died today,” Sergeant Von Tuk said.

“It’s unbelievable.”

The 68-year-old truck driver from Broadford was taken to hospital for observation.

Owner of the truck company McKenzie Water, Alan McKenzie, said the driver may have suffered a medical episode.

“We are in shock and offer our heartfelt condolences to everyone involved,” Mr McKenzie said in a statement.

“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.”

Mr McKenzie also thanked the staff and emergency services who responded.

“We are doing what we can to support him and his family,” he said.

“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.”