Tributes continue to flow for Independent MP for Indi Dr Helen Haines, who remains in a critical condition after she was struck by a vehicle outside her electorate office in Wangaratta on Monday afternoon, 19 October.
Leaders from politics, health, and the community have expressed their shock and their support for Dr Haines, her family, her staff, and her community.
“Helen is one of the most extraordinary people in Parliament,” said Greens Leader David Shoebridge.
“She is a strong voice for her community, a leading voice against corruption, and a powerful voice for compassion and humanity in Parliament.”
The National Rural Health Alliance said it was shocked and saddened by the violent attack. Chief Executive Susi Tegen is available for interview.
The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation said Dr Haines, a former nurse, midwife, and rural health researcher, is a cherished member of the healthcare community and a strong advocate for the nursing and midwifery professions and regional health services. Federal Secretary Annie Butler expressed the support of members during what she called an incredibly traumatic time.
EMILY’s List Australia said it was shocked and outraged.
“I am angry, deeply distressed and frankly sickened by what has happened to Helen Haines,” said EMILY’s List Australia CEO Pamela Anderson.
“No woman should fear for her safety because she has chosen to serve her community.”
Senator David Pocock and the Centre for Public Integrity are among others who have also offered their support.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has spoken with Dr Haines’s husband Phil.
“Helen Haines is characterised by her kindness, her compassion, her diligence, her intelligence,” Mr Albanese said.
Dr Haines had surgery and was airlifted to Melbourne after the incident. A man is in custody and police say the motive is unclear. The driver appeared to do a U-turn before the incident, and a bystander intervened.
Victoria Police is leading the investigation, supported by the Joint Counter Terrorism Team, which includes Victoria Police, the Australian Federal Police, and ASIO. AFP Commissioner Krissy Barrett stated the investigation into the alleged targeting is being led by the Victoria Police Security Investigation Unit and supported by the Joint Counter Terrorism Team Victoria.
The incident came about two hours after the appointment of new National Anti-Corruption Commission commissioners was announced. Dr Haines was a key figure in establishing the commission.
Dr Haines is the daughter of dairy farmers and grew up at Eurack with four brothers, attending a one-teacher school. She is married to agricultural scientist Phil Haines, and they have three children.
At 26, she became matron of the Chiltern Bush Nursing Hospital. She later earned a doctorate in medical science in Sweden.
She took over from Cathy McGowan as the face of Voices for Indi, won the seat of Indi in 2019, and has been re-elected twice. In her maiden speech, she recalled her parents’ advice not to put up with “tommyrot”.
Mr Shoebridge said Dr Haines was an example for public life.
“Helen is a kind, compassionate voice for civility in public life. We can all learn something from her.”
Something going on in your part of the New England people should know about? Let us know by emailing newsdesk@netimes.com.au