Tribute - Hillcrest Primary School Tragedy

Tuesday 8 March 2022

[12:12 p.m.]

Ms ARMITAGE (Launceston) - Mr President, I rise in support of the motion and with deep sadness for this terrible tragedy that was felt across the world. As a mother, my heart broke when I heard the news. I do not believe we could ever fully appreciate or understand what the families and the loved ones of these children must feel. The grief attached to the loss of six young lives would be all-consuming. Tragedy on this scale cannot be assigned meaning and it can never be explained. I know it must be torturous to the families and the loved ones of the children who are no longer with us.

I do not personally know the people who have been so closely touched by this heartbreak but since it has happened, they have been in my thoughts and prayers. I want them to know that they are not alone and they never will be. They will never be forgotten.

I extend my sincerest love and kindest wishes to the families, friends and the loved ones of Peter Dodt, Chace Harrison, Jalailah Jones, Zane Mellor, Jye Sheehan and Addison Stewart. I also extend my love to the children injured, including Declean Brown and Beau Medcraft, and wish them the very best for their ongoing recovery.

To the Hillcrest school and community, I wish you healing thoughts and sincerely thank all the first responders for their work to help.

Our children are the best parts of us and they are central to any parent's identity. The loss of these young people in the lives of their families, caregivers, friends, loved ones, Hillcrest school and community is deep and permanent. I offer my heartfelt condolences.

The trauma surrounding these circumstances will remain for a very long time. I want all those affected by this event to know that we are here for them, and we always will be.

Mr PRESIDENT - I thank all members for their contribution and ask all members to stand for one minute of silence as a mark of respect.

Motion agreed to nemine contradicente.