Brett Andrew Button, a 60-year-old wedding bus driver, has lodged an appeal against his 32-year prison sentence subsequent to a tragic collision that resulted in the deaths of 10 individuals and injuries to 25 others in the Hunter Valley region of New South Wales in June 2023. At the time of the incident, Button was reported to be under the influence of the opioid Tramadol and engaged in reckless driving behaviour, including excessive speed.
In September, Button was sentenced to a maximum of 32 years behind bars, with a minimum non-parole period of 24 years. NSW District Court Judge Roy Ellis remarked that he had never encountered a case with such a profound impact on numerous lives. Following his sentencing, Button initiated an appeal process, with an initial hearing taking place in the NSW Court of Criminal Appeal. A further hearing is scheduled for October 3, during which extensive evidence is expected to be presented, including victim impact statements from the families affected by the crash.
Button, who pleaded guilty to multiple charges of dangerous driving causing death and grievous bodily harm, admitted to consuming more than his prescribed dosage of opioids prior to operating the vehicle. The tragic incident unfolded when the bus entered a roundabout on Wine Country Drive at an estimated speed of 52 km/h, accelerating to 56 km/h while navigating the turn — a speed considered sufficient to overturn the vehicle, with the tipping point determined at just 31 km/h.
While Button is not contesting his conviction, consideration will be given to several character references and a psychological evaluation in the appeal. In the aftermath of the disaster, a class action has been initiated by victims and families of the deceased against the NSW government, alleging deficiencies in the roundabout’s design and questioning the appropriateness of the speed limits at that location.
The sorrow stemming from this incident continues to resonate within the community, as public memorial services have been held for those impacted by this devastating event.