I want to acknowledge our indomitable parliamentary colleague the member for Indi, Helen Haines MP. I want to acknowledge Helen as a thoroughly good person, a friend to so many in this place, a loved one to so many more, a nurse, a midwife, a health researcher and academic, and a passionate advocate for rural health care, housing, action on climate change, stamping out corruption and enhancing government integrity.

Helen's and my offices were once side by side in this place, and I got to know her. I also have family in her electorate. I have fond memories of travelling with her on delegations, when you get to know people, as well. We also served together on the regional development, infrastructure and transport committee, and, again, I was impressed about everything to do with Helen and the way she operated. When I faced challenges myself, she reached out to me. She's a thoroughly great person. I send the best wishes of my brother Dan Gosling and his family from Yackandandah in Indi. But, really, our whole family's prayers are with Helen, Phil, the kids, all the family, friends, staff and everyone who's a loved one of Helen's. And I want to acknowledge everyone who responded.

On Friday evening in Darwin and Palmerston we had message books so that members of my electorate could write messages to Helen. Some messages were from Territorians who had previously lived in Wangaratta. One of them says:

Dear Helen, we are sending all our love from Darwin. We recently relocated from Wang and miss your smiling face along Wilson Road.

It's a very local message. But many other Territorians stopped by, from every political party, and I want to mention some of those briefly. From Selena Uibo MLA:

Dear Helen, sending best wishes for your recovery. As an elected member…I know the honour and sacrifice of public office. Thank you for your community service and thinking of you at this critical time. Much prayers and care.

From Justine Davis MLA:

Dear Helen, you are and have always been the best of us. So many people have said this in the last few days—what was done to you was unfathomable. Love and strength to you and all those who love you, your family, your community—we are with you across Australia. You have had an enormous influence on me and model everything I believe about how we should all be in this world. Thank you so much. Love to you.

From Clinton Howe MLA:

In the face of adversity we find our greatest courage. Never give up and don't let the darkness of the world reduce your resolve. Wishing you a speedy recovery. On behalf of the people in Palmerston…

Our dear friend Warren Snowdon, a former member of this place and former member for Lingiari, sent his very best wishes, as did former chief minister of the Northern Territory Eva Lawler, who said:

To Helen, you and your family are in the hearts of all Territorians. We wish you a smooth and quick recovery. Sending all our strength and best wishes…Eva Lawler.

There have been so many messages from everyday Territorians as well. It is, I think, a tribute to Helen that there has been such an outpouring of support for Helen and her family. There are many voices from the Territory that are sending love not only to Helen but also to her family.

For me personally, it's just a great honour to know the member for Indi. I really look forward to her returning to this place. I might give the last word on this to my family because, at this time, we all think of our families, who sacrifice so much for the important work that we do in this place. I quote my family:

Helen, there are no words that can convey the depth of our horror and the immense love that rises against it. You are incredible—as is your family and community that support you in this difficult and dark time. I do not know what comes next but I know you will face it with grace and strength.

All of the love from my family to yours, Helen.