The 61-year-old man killed in Thursday's horror bus crash in Perth's north has been identified as Rooney Taua, a beloved husband and devoted father.
Mr Taua, originally from New Zealand and living in Banksia Grove, was on his ordinary morning commute to work when the Transperth bus he was travelling on left the road and crashed into a tree in Wanneroo.
Multiple passengers were on board, with eight people sustaining injuries. Mr Taua was among them and died in hospital overnight, leaving behind his daughter and wife.
Fundraiser established
A fundraiser set up by his relative Ben Moore aims to support the family through their immense heartbreak. Mr Moore described Mr Taua as a stoic man who took pride in his family.
“He was a quiet strength in the lives of those around him, a man who never sought recognition, who simply got on with the job of loving and providing for his family,” the fundraiser read.
“His sudden and devastating passing has left a big void in the hearts of his family and friends. Alongside the overwhelming grief of losing a husband, father, son, koro and provider, the family is now facing the immediate financial pressures.”
Funds for funeral and repatriation
The funds raised will be used for funeral and memorial expenses, including repatriating his body to New Zealand for a traditional burial, as well as supporting his grieving wife and family with essential household costs.
By early afternoon on Friday, more than $5,000 of the $35,000 goal had been raised.
“Thank you for your kindness, generosity, compassion, and support during this time,” Mr Moore wrote.
Family thanks rescuers
Mr Taua's family expressed gratitude to those who tried to save him. Through Mr Moore, they said they were “grateful for the community support and for those who assisted at the accident and cared for Rooney on the day.”
A 59-year-old female passenger remains in Royal Perth Hospital with critical injuries. Five other occupants were taken to Joondalup Health Campus with minor injuries. The 56-year-old male bus driver was taken to Royal Perth Hospital.
