Tasmanian tributes

Today in federal parliament Brian Mitchell MP paid tribute to Triabunna High School students Declan Draper and Jayden Silver, and their mate Dan whose quick thinking last Tuesday saved 85-year-old Jim McCrary from an uncertain end.

“I am sure I speak for all here … when I say thank you to Declan, Jayden and Dan – you’re handy boys to have around – and to wish Mr McCrary all the best and that we look forward to his next visit to Triabunna being a little warmer and drier.”

Mr Mitchell also expressed his “sadness, regret and anger” at the shooting injury caused to Deloraine 11-year-old Phoenix Newitt, and praised health, emergency services and police personnel for their work.

After being shot, Phoenix was initially taken to the Deloraine Medical Centre, and then Launceston General, but it was decided her best hopes lay with specialists in Melbourne.

“I would like to express my deep thanks and admiration to all police, health and emergency services personnel who worked so quickly and professionally to provide Phoenix the care she needed, and will continue to need in the days and months ahead.

“Phoenix, your school friends, your family, people down the street and at the shops – we are all behind you and thinking of you as you, and we look forward to seeing you home soon!”
BRIAN MITCHELL MP FEDERAL LABOR MEMBER FOR LYONS