Australians Unite in Candlelight Vigil for Critically Injured MP Helen Haines
Australians have come together to show their support for independent MP Helen Haines, who remains in a critical condition after being struck by a car outside her electorate office in Victoria's north-east. The outpouring of community spirit has seen people light candles and share messages of love and solidarity on social media, with many expressing their shock and sadness at the incident.
The movement, which was shared widely on social media, invited people to light a candle at 8pm AEDT as a gesture of community peace and solidarity. The Wangaratta Beacon, an old water tower repurposed for art installations, was lit up in amber as part of the vigil. Community members have flooded social media with photos of their own candlelight tributes to Ms Haines, with many expressing their admiration for the MP's dedication to her community.
Senator Fatima Payman, a colleague and friend of Ms Haines, posted a photo of a candle and wrote that it had been a tough week. "In the darkest moments, we've been reminded of the good in people," she said, highlighting the bravery of the barber who rushed to Ms Haines's aid and her husband's compassionate response.
While some chose to light candles at home, others attended community events in Victoria and around the country. A candlelit vigil was held in Lismore, NSW, where more than 60 people gathered to send their loving thoughts to Ms Haines and her family.
The attack on Ms Haines has triggered an outpouring of grief and emotion in her rural community, with several constituents sharing stories of her providing support and inspiration. Ms Haines's office has thanked everyone who has reached out with messages of love and support, saying they will take time to look after themselves and one another as they navigate the days and weeks ahead.
Ms Haines, 65, remains in a critical condition at The Alfred hospital, where her husband, Phil, revealed earlier this week that both of her legs had been amputated due to her injuries. The incident has also led to an investigation, with police alleging that the attack was a deliberate act by 43-year-old Tarrawingee man Brendan Nugent.
