<?xml version="1.0" encoding="ISO-8859-1"?> <docID>332147</docID> <postdate>2024-10-31 10:08:13</postdate> <headline>Support over school crash as fundraiser soars</headline> <body><p><img class=" wp-image-332149" src="https://citynews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Melbourne-school-crash-victim-e1730329546500.jpg" alt="" width="901" height="600" /></p> <caption>The Auburn South school community is grieving after 11-year-old Jack Davey was killed in a crash. Photo: Auburn South Primary School)</caption> <p><span class="kicker-line">By <strong>Rachael Ward</strong> in Melbourne</span></p> <p><strong>A dedicated hub is being set up to support a community devastated by a school crash that claimed the life of one boy and left four other children in hospital, as a fundraiser soared past $120,000.</strong></p> <p>Eleven-year-old, grade-five student Jack Davey died on the way to hospital after a car ploughed through a fence and into a schoolyard on Tuesday afternoon, hitting a group of Auburn South students sitting at a table.</p> <p>Two 11-year-old girls, a 10-year-old girl and a 10-year-old boy were seriously injured and taken to hospital.</p> <p>The driver, a 40-year-old woman, had just collected her child from the school in Melbourne's east and attempted a U-turn when the crash happened.</p> <p>The Hawthorn East mother was arrested and released following a police interview, with no charges laid.</p> <p>The local council has organised a community support hub at a nearby park set to be open from from Thursday Sunday.</p> <p>"We invite community members to come together and access support and referral services during this difficult time," City of Boroondara posted to social media.</p> <p>"Our hearts go out to the families, friends and the entire school community who are grappling with this devastating loss."</p> <p>A fundraiser for the Davey family had grown to more than $120,000 by Thursday morning.</p> <p>Organiser Lucy Pristel described Jack as a valued member of the Titans basketball community and Gladiators football club, as well as a keen futsal player.</p> <p>The money is intended to support the family with costs related to the loss of their son and to allow them to take time away from work.</p> <p>On Wednesday, Auburn South principal Marcus Wicher said there had been an "overwhelming" response since the tragedy, with remarkable courage and care shown.</p> <p>"This school community is so wonderful and strong, together we will get through this," Mr Wicher told reporters.</p> <p>The school is open and extra support services available, including extra teachers from neighbouring schools as well as pastoral and counselling services.</p> </body>