Australia Considers Stricter Jumping Castle Safety Rules After Fatal 'Mini Tornado' Incident
An inquest is examining whether current regulations for inflatable amusements are adequate following the deaths of six children.
New regulations for jumping castles and other inflatable amusement devices could be introduced across Australia following a freak weather event that hurled a jumping castle 16 metres into the air, killing six children. An inquest into the tragedy is examining the adequacy of current safety measures, including anchoring and operation in windy conditions.
The incident occurred in December 2021 at Hillcrest Primary School in Tasmania when an inflatable jumping castle and Zorb balls were lifted by a sudden, powerful gust of wind. Six children aged 11 and 12 died, and three others were seriously injured. The inquest, which began recently after the conclusion of separate criminal proceedings, aims to prevent similar future tragedies.
Witnesses described the event as a localized 'mini tornado' or 'dust devil' that appeared without warning on an otherwise calm and clear day. Meteorological experts later classified the event as a dust devil of unusual force for Tasmania, formed by specific atmospheric conditions.
Counsel assisting the coroner, Maree Norton SC, told the court that the inquest would critically consider the appropriateness of Australian standards for land-borne inflatable devices and related regulatory practices. The court heard that the jumping castle was secured with only four pegs, instead of the available eight, and the Zorb arena used only six of its 32 anchor points.
Rosemary Anne Gamble, the owner of the business that supplied the jumping castle, was previously found not guilty of failing in her work health and safety duty. A class action has since been commenced on behalf of the victims' families, seeking to hold the state responsible.
In heartbreaking testimony, the mother of one of the deceased children expressed frustration with the perceived lack of transparency and personal contact from school officials and the Department of Education in the aftermath of the tragedy. Lawyers for the State of Tasmania assured the families of their cooperation with the inquiry.
The inquest is ongoing, with further examination of safety protocols and potential regulatory changes expected.