HEARTBROKEN family members have expressed their sorrow over the tragic loss of Tracy Redding, 43, and her daughter Emily, 16, who died in the horrific light plane crash.
The grieving Mount Gambier family yesterday released an emotional statement on behalf of Troy Redding, who lost his wife and daughter in the accident.
“As you can appreciate, my brother is not up to making comment at this time and is spending time with his family, coming to terms with the tragic events and is at home supporting his young family,” Grant said.
“Our thoughts are also with the family and friends of the pilot who was a dedicated and tireless volunteer who also lost his life in this tragic incident.”
He thanked police, emergency services, staff at Grant High School and others for their sympathy and empathy in dealing with family members at this difficult time.
“We know that an event such as this will affect many members of the communities of Mount Gambier and Mount Barker and hope that anyone affected by it will seek support from family, friends or support services,” Grant said.
“We respectfully request the media respects the privacy of the family at this most difficult of times.”
Meanwhile, Grant High School principal Fleur Roachock said yesterday the school community was grieving the “sudden and incredibly sad” event.
She said the school’s condolences go out to the family and friends of everybody on board the plane.
Ms Roachock said counsellors had been deployed for students and staff.
“And and into the future we will be looking to how we are going to celebrate the life of a very valued school community member,” the principal said.
