House debates

Tuesday, 6 February 2024

Statements by Members

Phillip Island: Drownings

1:31 pm

Photo of Cassandra FernandoCassandra Fernando (Holt, Australian Labor Party) Share this | | Hansard source

The recent incident that occurred at Phillip Island, which claimed the lives of Jagjeet Singh, Suhani Anand, Reema Sondhi and Kitri Bedi, has left the entire community in profound grief. Jagjeet, who recently graduated as an aged care nurse, had served the elderly since the depths of the pandemic. Suhani was studying to be a nurse, just like her brother. Kriti arrived six months ago, aspiring to be a psychologist. Reema Sondhi was on holidays visiting her brother, who resided in Clyde. Their sudden departure has left an irreplaceable void in our community. We weep not only for the lives lost but for the dreams unfulfilled and the potential unrealised. In our shared grief, may we find solace and strength in one another.

I would also like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the emergency services who responded to the incident and who work tirelessly every day. The memories of Jagjeet, Suhani, Kriti and Reema will forever remain in our hearts, and their legacies will endure through the love and unity of our community. May their souls rest in eternal peace.