Anzac day crash driver sentenced
The driver of a World War II truck which ploughed into veterans during Melbourne's Anzac Day parade last year has apologised following sentencing today.
Russell Hughes, 65, was at the wheel of his vintage truck when it lurched into a group of veterans from the Ceylon Ex-Servicemen's Association on St Kilda Road during the annual parade.
Mr Hughes, from Bunyip in West Gippsland, pleaded guilty today to three counts of dangerous driving causing serious injury.
The Melbourne Magistrates' Court heard Hughes was a volunteer driver in last year's Anzac Day march when he lost concentration and ploughed into the group of ex-service men.
Outside Melbourne's Magistrates'Court today, Mr Hughes fought back tears.
"I would just like to say that this accident shows how things can go so terribly wrong," he said.
"I'm greatly relieved that the injured members of Ceylon Ex-Servicemen's Association have all recovered."
The incident happened outside the Arts Centre where families gathered to watch the march.
Three were seriously injured, one had a fractured pelvis while another had five fractured ribs.
Witnesses saw him taking a photograph from behind the wheel of the vehicle moments before the crash.
The court heard Mr Hughes was deeply remorseful and had received counselling from a psychologist.
A judge handed Mr Hughes a $4,500 fine and banned him from driving for 18 months.
