Seven-year-old girl who died after being struck by caravan in Tidal River identified

The schoolgirl who died in a freak camping accident has been described as “caring” child who loved nature and animals.Rose McMahon died after being struck by a caravan that was being moved at a popular Wilsons Promontory campground earlier this month.

An off duty paramedic performed CPR on the girl but she was not able to be saved.

The Year 2 student, who lived in Drouin with her parents, had run to retrieve a ball when the caravan began to reverse.

Rose’s family have started a GoFundMe to help raise funds for environmental initiatives like financing a tree planting day, in memory of the schoolgirl.

“Your gift will help Rose’s parents (Chris and Katrin) and family to continue Rose’s legacy of love for the Warragul and Drouin community, protecting the Prom and providing hope for the future,” the campaign organiser wrote.

They explained Rose was a caring young girl who just wanted to make the world a “better and kinder place”.

“Rose took great pleasure in meeting and getting to know people, planting trees, spending time in the bush and doting on animals,” the organiser said.

“She especially loved Drouin’s many local birds and was keen to do what she could to protect their habitat.

“In her spirit, this fundraiser hopes to finance community initiatives across Baw Baw Shire and Wilson’s Promontory National Park over the next 12 months, including a tree planting day and helping to regenerate local areas.

“Your gift will help Rose’s parents and family to continue Rose’s legacy of love for the Warragul and Drouin community, protecting the Prom and providing hope for the future.”

The driver of the caravan has been assisting police with inquiries.

Tidal River is the main visitor hub for Wilsons Promontory National Park where visitors enjoy swimming and surfing at Norman Beach and is the gateway to many popular walks and overnight hikes to the southern Prom.