Hunter Valley bus driver Brett Button has been released on bail
The driver of the bus that killed Sunday night in the Hunter Valley was released on bail after a judge said the incident was a “tragic” death.
Brett Andrew Button, 58, appeared in Cessnock Magistrates Court on Tuesday morning, seeking bail after spending the night in custody following the horror accident.
A rescue operation was conducted at the Hunter Valley crash site on Monday.Credit: Nine news
The court learned that after the accident, his driver’s license was revoked by the police and that he was willing to stay at his house overnight and only be able to leave the house if someone else accompanied him. He also offered $10,000 bail.
Button was charged Monday with 10 counts of dangerous driving resulting in death, one for every person killed, and one count of negligent driving resulting in death for every 10 victims.
He was supported in court by family members, including his wife and mother, who sat in silence. His attorney said their presence showed Button had strong ties to the community.
Prosecutors had opposed bail amid concerns that Button might not appear in court and interfere with the investigation, which is “in its infancy”.
Supporters of bus driver Brett Button leave Cessnock Magistrates Court after his bail hearing.Credit: Janie Barrett
Judge Robyn Richardson did not accept police fears that Button could interfere with the investigation.
“This court realizes that he is suffering as much as the rest of the community,” Richardson said.
