Dreamworld’s parent company Ardent Leisure said they were “horrified and sickened” to learn of jokes made by an employee of the amusement park following Tuesday’s tragic accident which resulted in the deaths of four people.
According to The Courier Mail Benn Rattray, who is employed by Dreamworld, took to Facebook after the incident and posted a link to a news report with the caption: “Oops, I knew I forgot something”.
Rattray then reportedly went on to joke that he was supposed to service the Thunder River Rapids ride but “forgot”.
“Just heading back to Dreamworld to tighten up the conveyor belt. Was supposed to do it after smoko but forgot …” he posted.
On Thursday he also reportedly added: “On a positive note … At least they died having fun …”
Another Facebook user allegedly responded to the post: “I knew these people … Their kids aren’t laughing.”
The Courier Mail also published screenshots of Rattray’s posts which have since been deleted.
A spokeswoman for Ardent Leisure confirmed Rattray worked at the company and said they were “horrified and sickened by these Facebook posts.”
Rattray has since taken to Facebook to post: “Don’t believe everything you read.. Especially online.. #IseenItOnTheInternetSoItMustBeTrue”
Meanwhile, Dreamworld has reversed its decision to reopen for a memorial day and has confirmed they will remain closed to cooperate with the ongoing investigation.
VIDEO: Fatal amusement-ride accident at Dreamworld on the Gold Coast
