St Basil’s Fawkner bosses face court in bid to avoid giving evidence at inquest

·

Two former managers at St Basil’s Homes for the Aged in Fawkner, where 50 residents died during a coronavirus outbreak, have begun their Supreme Court bid to avoid giving evidence at an inquest, The Sydney Morning Herald reports.

Kon Kontis was the chairman at St Basil’s and Vicky Kos the director of nursing during the outbreak in 2020 at the aged care home, where 45 residents died with coronavirus and another five perished, likely from neglect.

Kontis and Kos were ordered to give evidence at the coronial inquest over their handling of the outbreak in July 2020.

But the former managers are fighting to reverse the decision in the Supreme Court of Victoria.

At a hearing on Wednesday, their barrister Ian Hill QC said there was a WorkSafe investigation on foot and compelling the former managers to give evidence would be a “template” for the regulator.

“Should the plaintiffs be compelled to give evidence as the coroner ruled, it would be a dress rehearsal in respect to any prosecution for charges against them under the Occupational Health and Safety Act,” Mr Hill told the court.

The hearing continues in front of Justice Stephen O’Meara and concludes on Friday.

READ MORE: St Basil’s Fawkner bosses appeal court orders forcing them to give evidence.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Sydney Olympic and South Melbourne set for derby showdown at Jubilee Stadium

Sydney Olympic and South Melbourne reignite their rivalry at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium for another chapter in the Australian Championship.

Sydney Olympic AGM: Hanlin tackles logo backlash, funding offers and a new direction

Sydney Olympic FC held its AGM on Tuesday, where President Damon Hanlin presented a wide-ranging update on the club’s future direction.

A legacy continued: Celebrating 50 years of the Navarino Society of SA

The 50th anniversary of the Navarino (Pylion) Society of South Australia was marked with a night of pride, nostalgia, and optimism.

Renos Haralambidis reflects on time, art, and the spirit of Hellenism during Sydney visit

Greek filmmaker Renos Haralambidis concluded an insightful and warmly received visit to Sydney, which featured his entire body of work.

Oakleigh Grammar marks OXI Day with heartfelt tributes and student-led performances

With emotion, pride, and deep respect for history, Oakleigh Grammar held its annual celebration for OXI Day on Tuesday, October 28. 

You May Also Like

Albanese and Trump unveil landmark critical minerals pact to counter China

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and US President Donald Trump have announced a $8.5b deal to develop critical minerals projects.

President resigns from Federation of Greek Elderly Citizens Clubs of Victoria

John Kostoulias has resigned as President of the Federation of Greek Elderly Citizens Clubs of Melbourne and Victoria for health reasons.

Italian actress Sophia Loren’s love for the Greek island of Hydra

Italian actress Sophia Loren has expressed how much she loves the island of Hydra, as she reminisces on filming there in the 1950's.