No one was hurt in the accident, which blocked traffic on Commercial Road about 8.50am, but one of the cars involved had to be towed.

Crossing supervisor Susan Hand said parents and school staff jumped into action by clearing debris and directing cars until police arrived at 9.20am.

“Parents and two school assistants came out in high vis gear to direct traffic because it was all on one side of the lane,” Mrs Hand said. 

“They were awesome. They’re standing in the middle of a congested road and I thought it would’ve been good to have some police. 

“I tried calling the Koroit station but no one was there.Accidents happen and we were lucky there was no one injured, but my concern is for police numbers.”

Sergeant Russell Tharle of Warrnambool said the Koroit and Port Fairy stations were unattended yesterday morning, with officers rostered to work late shifts.

“They can’t be rostered 24/7 because of the Friday and Saturday night requirements,” Sergeant Tharle said. “That’s one of the factors of living in the country.” He said the 30-minute response was not due to Victoria Police’s two-up rule, which requires a pairing of officers in all responses.

“It’s unfortunate, but it’s great that the general public could respond the way it did.

“The police are the community and the community are the police, said Sir Robert Peel, who started the Metropolitan Police in London.

“We need assistance at all times — not just in criminal matters but others the public can be involved in.”