The Burdekin Shire Mayor has thanked the community for its kindness and support in the wake of a fatal stabbing at a local backpackers hostel last week.
A backpacker from the UK was fatally wounded by a fellow traveller while staying at Home Hill Backpackers in the Burdekin region in Queensland.
Mayor Lyn McLaughlin said the community has rallied around those impacted by the tragedy.
“The Burdekin is a kind and caring community and in times of crises our community rallies together to supports those who need it most,” she said.
“Businesses, community groups, churches and residents have shown fantastic support for these young travellers and, on behalf of Council, I thank them all.
“There has been food, care packages, barbecues, offers of day trips and a lot of sympathy and love provided.
“The amount of food that has been delivered has been phenomenal and well received, but I have been asked to pass on that no further food donations are required.”
The Council received a card of thanks from the backpackers, expressing appreciation for the support received.
“An incident like this has a huge impact on a community and I would also thank all the agencies involved in ensuring the backpackers and the Home Hill community are well supported and receiving any help they require,” said the Mayor.
An All Churches Memorial and Healing Service will be held tonight at the Burdekin Memorial Hall in Home Hill.
The service will include the Home Hill Anglican Church, Home Hill Catholic Church, Home Hill Greek Orthodox Church, Home Hill Presbyterian Church, Home Hill Uniting Church, Chaplain Gwen Marshall and the Red Cross.
Council is also holding a community meeting for Home Hill residents on Wednesday, which will be addressed by Mayor McLaughlin, Queensland Police and the Red Cross.
