Finding into death of Hugh Neville Monroe

62y · Male·Multiple injuries post motor vehicle accident (fire truck)

Mr Hugh Neville Monroe, 62-year-old experienced CFA volunteer driver, died from multiple injuries when his fire tanker collided with trees while negotiating a right-hand bend on Spring Creek Road. Investigation revealed Mr Monroe approached the curve at 68-80kph, exceeding the safe speed of 55kph and the critical curve speed of 80kph. Excluded factors included alcohol, drugs, fatigue, mechanical failure, and medical conditions. The coroner found the death preventable, resulting from driver error—excessive speed for the road conditions and unfamiliar curve handling. Despite Mr Monroe's extensive Army driving experience and CFA qualification, he failed to exercise appropriate caution on this familiar but dangerous road. The case highlights that experienced drivers remain vulnerable to road hazards without proper speed management.