Lisa Singh (Tasmania, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise with sadness this evening to offer my condolences to the Scanlon family of the north-west coast of Tasmania for the loss of their daughter, Kate, who on Tuesday was the victim of a tragic train accident in India. Kate was one of four Tasmanians who had travelled to India seeking new experiences. On their way to the holy city of Bodh Gaya, two coaches of the train caught alight. In the ensuing fire, seven people were killed, including Kate. Kate was a beautiful and vibrant 21-year-old who moved from her home of Forth on the north-west coast of Tasmania to Melbourne to pursue her studies in physiotherapy. Her loss diminishes us all.

With Kate were three other Tasmanians. My thoughts are with their families, and my hopes for a quick and safe repatriation home. This group of young women are like so many young Australians. Driven by curiosity, wonder and excitement for a world that has opened up to them in the early years of their adulthood, they were simply looking to explore. And like so many Australians—our country has such a reputation for travelling the globe—they wanted to taste some of the culture that makes our world such an amazing place. Tasmania is a close community, the north-west of our state most of all. I know that in this difficult time for the families of these young women they will be supported by their friends and neighbours, and I am sure I speak for all my Tasmanian colleagues when I say that our thoughts are with them.

Senate adjourned at 22:38