Sick school children mystery revealed

Police have revealed schoolchildren who were rushed to hospital after eating lollies on a school bus in Far North Queensland were not exposed to a toxic substance as initially believed.

Police launched an investigation after 15 primary school children from Bluewater State School ate lollies from sealed packets passed around on a school bus on Thursday.

Queensland Police Service confirmed on Friday investigations have uncovered no evidence that the children involved were exposed to a toxic substance.

“There is no indication a criminal offence has occurred,” police stated.

The Townsville Bulletin reported some of the children might have eaten too many sweets and started to complain of stomach aches, and others followed suit.

None of the children were vomiting, had diarrhoea or had any other illnesses despite initial reports, but paramedics were called and they were taken to hospital.

All students have since been discharged from hospital.

Meanwhile, bus company Kinetic stood down the bus driver while a police investigation is underway.

“Kinetic is supporting local police with the investigation of an alleged incident which occurred in Townsville (on Thursday) and the bus driver has been stood down,” a statement from the company said.

“We take the safety and welfare of all passengers, in particular children and young people, seriously.”

Paramedics were called to Bluewater State School in Far North Queensland at 10.10am on Thursday following reports multiple children were suffering from minor illness symptoms.

Bluewater State School announced on Thursday the school was taking appropriate measures following the health scare.

“Bluewater State School holds the safety of students and staff as its highest priority,” the school wrote on its Facebook page.

“School staff acted quickly to attend to the students while the Queensland Ambulance Service and parents were contacted.”