Nationwide candlelight vigils have been held in support of independent MP Helen Haines, who lost both legs after being struck twice by a four-wheel drive outside her Wangaratta electorate office.
Dr Haines remains in a critical but stable condition at The Alfred following Monday afternoon’s incident. Constituent Brendan Nugent was arrested at the scene, taken into custody and remains before the courts.
The Rural City of Wangaratta lit its town beacon amber as part of the vigil, describing the gesture as a public display of compassion and solidarity.
“This simple gesture reflects our community’s compassion, solidarity, and rejection of violence,” a council spokesman said.
“Our thoughts remain with Helen, her family, her team and everyone affected by this distressing incident.
“At times like these, what unites us matters far more than what divides us.”
Communities gathered across Australia on Friday evening, including more than 60 people at a candlelight vigil in Lismore.
Lismore MP Janelle Saffin said the gathering had been held to send Dr Haines and her family “all our loving thoughts”.
“Helen is an amazing woman and this is the most devastating of events,” Ms Saffin said.
“I would like to echo our Governor-General, Sam Mostyn’s sentiments that we are a caring country and need to consciously practice kindness to our neighbours and community.”
Dr Haines’s staff said earlier on Friday that they had been overwhelmed by messages of support from Australia and around the world.
More than $730,000 had also been raised for Save the Children Australia in her honour.
“We are deeply moved by the extraordinary generosity of so many people,” the staff said in a statement.
“What happened on Monday has deeply affected Helen’s family and all of her staff. Many of us witnessed the incident and some were among the first to come to her aid.
“As Helen takes the time she needs to recover, we will take time to look after ourselves and one another, too. Healing will take time, and we ask for your understanding as we navigate the days and weeks ahead.”
