Australians unite to support victims of Bourke St tragedy

In the wake of the tragedy on Bourke St, a number of friends and family members launched mycause campaigns to support their loved ones during this time of grief. This horrific act has been felt across the country, with Australians uniting to support Melburnians during this incredibly difficult time.

Australians were heartbroken to learn that one of the victims was young Tahlia Hakin, a 10-year-old who was in the city with her mother Nathalie and little sister Maggie. Tahlia was allegedly hit by the car and passed away at the scene, while her mother and sister were raced to hospital. The response to Thalia’s crowdfunding campaign was powerful, with Australians far and wide donating to help the family with their medical expenses and to honour Thalia’s memory.

Young father Matthew also lost his life on Bourke St, leaving his wife Melinda and 18-month-old baby behind. Matthew and Melinda had just eaten lunch together before leaving one another to return to work when tragedy struck. This family is now torn apart, without a father and husband. The parents of Matthew and Melinda do not live in Melbourne, leaving Melinda as a single parent with few people to rely on.

The youngest victim of the Bourke St tragedy was 3-month-old baby Zachary Bryant, who passed away at the Royal Children’s Hospital from the injuries he sustained. Zachary’s sister Zara was also injured and thankfully is out of hospital. Heartbroken mother Nawwar described her little boy as “too perfect for this world” and greatly appreciated the messages of support received.

Young mother Nethra was on her way back to work after feeding her baby at daycare when she too was struck on Bourke St. Nethra sustained multiple injuries, including a punctured lung, broken ribs and a fractured spine. The devoted wife and mother is now in a stable condition, thanks to the incredible doctors and nurses who cared for Nethra from the moment she was rushed through the hospital doors. Family friend Tanvir launched a mycause campaign to support Nethra’s long road to recovery, with donations flowing in from across the world.