The grade 2 students and teachers were among 45 people aboard a Bendigo Coachlines bus on Napier Street when it crashed into two stationary cars about 3.10pm.

Sergeant Mick McCrann said the driver of the bus was a 51-year-old man from Bendigo who at this stage appeared to be at fault for the incident. He said police were investigating as to whether distraction was involved in the crash.

Traffic was significantly impacted for more than 45 minutes as emergency services worked at the scene.

“Because it’s such a high traffic road, it has a significant impact on traffic with even minor collisions,” Sergeant McCrann said. 

Police are still working to determine whether or not a truck was also involved in the collision.

Sergeant McCrann said, thankfully, all passengers on the bus were wearing seat belts. All but those taken to hospital walked back to the school following the collision.

Today is also the final day of Operation Millet, a police operation focusing on people using mobile phones or other electronic devices while driving.

Sergeant McCrann said the crash had the potential to be a lot worse.

UPDATE 3.49pm: Traffic is moving again on Napier Street as crews start cleaning up.

EARLIER: Napier Street is completely blocked to traffic as tow trucks move into position take away the damaged cars.

VicRoads is on the scene directing traffic.

EARLIER: EMERGENCY services are attending an incident involving a school bus with students on board on Napier Street at White Hills.

The crash just after 3pm involved the Bendigo Coachlines bus, a truck and two cars – one grey and one silver.

An Ambulance Victoria spokesperson said five people had been assessed by paramedics and are being transported to Bendigo hospital.

Patients include three children and two adults. All are in a stable condition.

More to come.