Joanne Ryan (Lalor, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise today with a heavy heart, in condolence, representing a community in deep mourning. Yesterday, my community, like many people across Melbourne and the nation, woke heartbroken, shocked and unable to comprehend the tragic news of a house fire in Werribee which claimed the lives of four children. There are really no words that can sum up the sorrow or that can explain how something like this, something so cruel, could happen to a beautiful family. I want to pass my condolences to the Osman family, who have gone through this unimaginable tragedy, and wish a speedy recovery to Najm, Khadjah and Ibrahim in their time of grief. We lost Musrah, aged 10; Icen, aged six; Nadeer, aged three; and Ileen, aged just 12 months.

My thoughts are also with their friends and neighbours, who, too, have been affected by this horrific event; the Manor Lakes College community; and the worshippers at Virgin Mary and Al-Taqwa mosques, who share this grief.

I want to thank the Wyndham Vale, Werribee and Hoppers Crossing CFA Brigades who answered the call in the middle of the night. I want to thank the ambulance officers and the police who attended. They too are in the thoughts of our nation today. May these four precious children who were taken from us far too early rest in peace. Beyond the incomprehension, the shock and grief, I know that my community will wrap their arms around this family and support them and all those who are left to heal.

Sharon Claydon (Newcastle, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I'm sure on behalf of all the House here, we pass our condolences to the school too. I give the call to the member for Grey.