Casino teen’s brave bus rescue recognised with Premier’s Award

Janelle Saffin MP was on hand to see NSW Premier Chris Minns present his first Premier's Award to Casino High School student Izzy Miller for preventing a bus crash last year.

LISMORE MP Janelle Saffin has thanked NSW Premier Chris Minns for today awarding Casino High School student Izzy Miller a Premier’s Award to honour her brave actions in preventing a bus crash last year.

In November, a bus with around 20 local students aboard began moving after the bus driver had stepped out from the vehicle.

Izzy quickly realised the danger as the bus moved toward a petrol station, with CCTV showing customers and staff were in harm’s way.

Izzy jumped into the empty driver’s seat and took control of the wheel. She located the brake pedal and steered the bus to safety, avoiding petrol bowsers, pedestrians and other vehicles.

Izzy, who was in year nine at the time, prevented what could have been a serious accident, with all passengers escaping unharmed.

Premier Chris Minns presented Izzy with a Premier’s Award trophy at a school assembly to recognise her heroic act.

The Premier’s Award gives recognition to people or groups in NSW who have contributed to the state, either through their significant act, contribution, or achievement.

This is the first Premier’s Award awarded by Premier Minns.

NSW Premier Chris Minns said:

“Thank you, Izzy, for showing courage and judgement beyond your years.

“Your bravery and quick thinking saved students and members of the public from a potential disaster.

“What makes your actions even more remarkable is you don’t even have your L-plates yet.

“I am so pleased to be able to present you with this award.

“You are a deserving recipient of the first Premier’s Award I have presented since coming to office.”

SCHOOL PRIDE: Casino High School student Izzy Miller proudly holds her Premier’s Award after NSW Premier Chris Minns visited her school to present what was his first Premier’s Award since being elected to lead New South Wales. State MPs Janelle Saffin (Lismore) and Richie Williamson (Clarence), NSW Minister for the North Coast Rose Jackson and Richmond Valley Mayor Cr Robert Mustow also attended the presentation ceremony.