Nola Marino (Forrest, Liberal Party) Share this | Hansard source

I rise to speak on the condolence motion for Sergeant Brett Wood. I start by offering my most sincere sympathy to his wife, Elvi, his parents, his family and his 2nd Commando Regiment. Brett has been acknowledged as one of our most decorated soldiers who was serving with the Special Operations Task Group in Afghanistan when he was killed in action as a result of an improvised explosive device. I would also like to pass on my thoughts and prayers to the two commandos from the 2nd Regiment who were seriously wounded in the same incident in Kandahar.

I also acknowledge Major-General Angus Campbell, who travelled from Al Minhad base to Tarin Kowt to accompany Brett back from the war zone. I met Major-General Campbell recently during a parliamentary visit to Afghanistan. I know that his thoughts, his memories and his grief during that trip will stay with him all his life. I am aware of just how much he respects and cares for each of those fine young men. The crew of the Hercules and Brett's comrades on board would have stayed with Brett's casket right through that repatriation journey. What a tough flight that would have been, but how privileged they would have felt to bring the body of this warrior, their mate, back. They would not have wanted to be anywhere else but with him at that time.

Brett was 32 years old and had significant operational experience in Bougainville, East Timor and Iraq. He was serving his third deployment in Afghanistan. His Special Operations Task Group commander described Brett as 'a man amongst men, a soldier's soldier, an outstanding leader, a great mate, a loving husband, courageous and professional to a fault'.

Elvi Wood, his wife, released a statement dedicated to her soul mate and friend. She said:

Brett was extremely proud to be part of the 2nd Commando Regiment and he considered many of his colleagues to be his second family. He was an excellent soldier, a true leader and a friend to all in his unit.

Elvi described Brett as 'a much loved son, grandson and brother who inspired his family with his dedication and generosity'. Really, this tells us all just how much Brett was loved and respected. It also tells us that he will live on in the hearts and minds of his family and friends, such as those with the Special Operations Task Group, who were immeasurably blessed to have Brett in their lives.

Elvi recognised her time with Brett as the happiest of her life. I will conclude with the words of Elvi Wood. She said:

Brett, you have done your country proud and you will always be remembered.

Lest we forget.

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