Angus Andrew Craig first Hunter Valley bus crash victim farewelled

The couple whose wedding turned into a tragic event when a bus carrying their guests overturned, resulting in the death of 10 people onboard, have been spotted for the first time since the horrific crash. Angus Andrew Craig, 28, was laid to rest in a funeral service held in Worrigee, Nowra, marking the first funeral following the accident that occurred earlier this month in the Hunter Valley of New South Wales.

Among the mourners attending Mr. Craig’s service, which took place two weeks after his passing, were Mitchell Gaffney and his newlywed wife, Maddy Edsell. Mr. Craig, originally from the south coast, had moved to Singleton for work at BHP after completing university. He had also been residing with Mr. Gaffney.

The chapel overflowed with mourners, including Mr. Craig’s friends from high school, university, and colleagues from work. The crowd gathered at all three entrances of the building to bid farewell to the 28-year-old. In lieu of flowers, attendees were encouraged to donate to a Cancer Research charity of their choice, a cause that Mr. Craig had been passionate about during his life.

After the service, Ms. Edsell and Mr. Gaffney were seen leaving the chapel hand in hand. Prior to that, they were engaged in conversations with attendees and family members near Mr. Craig’s hearse.

During the poignant ceremony, the other victims of the bus tragedy were also remembered. Mourners were invited to stand in a minute of silence to honor the nine individuals who lost their lives in the horrific bus crash.

“We express our sincere compassion and love to everyone on the bus, all those involved in the wedding, and those affected by the tragedy on that night,” stated celebrant Narelle Harding.

A notice regarding Mr. Craig’s funeral celebrated him as a beloved partner to Isabella, an “adored son, much-loved brother and brother-in-law.” Resting against Mr. Craig’s casket was a surfboard, symbolizing his love for surfing and the ocean.

Mr. Craig had recently moved in with his partner, Bella, while working as a fly-in fly-out employee in Blackwater, Queensland. Bella, devastated by the loss of her life partner, expressed her deep heartbreak.

“It’s incredibly difficult to put into words the immeasurable impact Angus had on my life, and even more difficult to accept the fact that we have lost such a beautiful, kind, and vibrant soul,” Bella said.

She described Mr. Craig as open-minded, curious, and always ready for any adventure, no matter how unconventional. Bella shared that Thursday would always hold a special place in her heart because it was the day Mr. Craig returned from his job after being away. She mentioned how he had reassured her that “tomorrow will always be better” during moments of sadness.

“When I feel sad, overwhelmed by emotions, and the world seems a bit dull, I will remind myself that tomorrow will be better,” Bella expressed. “I will smile and laugh, appreciate every sunset and scenic view. I will remember that I am forever a better person for having loved and been loved by you, Angus.”

Mr. Craig’s sister, Georgia, who is expecting her first child in two weeks, spoke about how her younger brother will always hold a place in their hearts. She described him as a responsible man who consistently prioritized others before himself.

“He was hardworking and fortunately had a fulfilling social life,” Georgia remarked. “He had plans for the future with his partner Bella. When we bid him goodnight and tell him we love him, he is still with us.”

Shaun Cunningham, Mr. Craig’s childhood friend since they were two years old, also shared memories during the funeral service. He described his late