A Mount Ommaney Special School teacher and her husband were killed when their motorbike collided with a four-wheel drive at Carbrook, near Brisbane.
The tragic accident occurred on Sunday, 5 January 2025, at around 7:30 p.m., at the intersection of Mount Cotton and Coorang Roads. Sandra Schuptar, 65, and her husband Peter, 63, both residents of Cornubia, were riding their Honda Goldwing motorcycle when the crash happened.
Emergency services treated the couple for severe injuries, but both were pronounced dead at the scene.
Community in Mourning
Sandra was a prominent figure at Mount Ommaney Special School, where she was the head of the Early Childhood Development Program and Special Education Services. The school described her as a dedicated educator who made everyone feel welcome and valued. Colleagues and parents expressed their heartbreak at the loss, with one parent recalling how Sandra had been a source of unwavering support for families of children with special needs.
The school community issued a statement describing the news of her death as a shock, leaving them “heartbroken beyond belief.” Tributes also came from neighbouring special schools and the Queensland Association of Special Education Leaders, which highlighted her significant contribution to the field of special education.
Remembering the Couple’s Contributions
Beyond her professional achievements, Sandra, along with her husband Peter, was an active member of the local Jewish community. The couple organised prayer groups and led trips to Israel, leaving an indelible impact on those around them. Friends remembered them as caring and generous individuals who brought people together.
Peter, who was well-known for his involvement in local transport services, shared his wife’s passion for community service. Together, they were remembered as compassionate leaders who touched many lives through their work and personal connections.
Investigation Underway
The driver of the Nissan Patrol, a 21-year-old Carbrook man, was unharmed in the crash. Queensland Police are investigating the circumstances of the incident, urging anyone with information, including dashcam footage, to come forward.
A Lasting Legacy
Sandra and Peter Schuptar’s sudden passing has left a profound void in the communities they served. Their dedication to education, family support, and faith continues to resonate with those who knew them.
The Mount Ommaney Special School community plans to honour their memory in the coming weeks as they navigate this time of grief.
Published 9-January-2025