THE tragic story of the death of three well-known and well-loved Korumburra community contributors, allegedly as a result of eating poisonous mushrooms in Leongatha, has gone viral worldwide.
But South Gippsland Shire Council Mayor Cr Nathan Hersey is keen to see Leongatha and Korumburra characterized as caring, supportive communities and an area known for its beauty rather than this terrible tragedy.
Speaking on Channel 7 Sunrise on Thursday morning, Cr Hersey said many in the community were shocked and saddened by the incident, but that support was being offered.
“Certainly, what we know and what we're feeling is that a lot of people are grieving this terrible situation that's occurred in Korumburra with the loss of life and also with Pastor Ian Wilkinson still in hospital in a very critical condition,” said Cr Hersey.
“And we are seeing a lot of people who are not only grieving but getting around each other in a way that we would expect to see in our community, which is to support one another at this very difficult time.”
Asked to say something about the deceased and the high regard in which they were held in the community, Cr Hersey said they were strong community contributors.
“Don and Gail were instrumental in a number of initiatives in the Korumburra community, very much involved. They produced the local newsletter, The Burra Flyer, and Don taught at the secondary college for a number of years. Even yesterday, I was speaking to a local resident who was taught by Don and said that they will always remember Don as being probably the best teacher they've ever had.
“And Heather was obviously involved in the community as well with the meals service, the church and teaching as well. They were people who were instrumental and integral to our small community.
Natalie Bar (7 Sunrise): With something like this. It is such an unusual story. The whole country is talking about it. How is your town coping with that?
“Look, it's a beautiful area here and we're a very small community. Korumburra in particular is known for its green rolling hills and, and just it’s natural beauty,” said Cr Hersey.
“What we want people to know is that there's more to South Gippsland than simply just this tragic situation that has occurred, and I know that those who are involved would want those around the country to know that it's a beautiful place to come and a fantastic place to visit with really, really wonderful people.
“So, our community really wants to have that message out there that there's more to us than this story. But part of what we see here is exactly what makes us such a great place to be, it's the people, the people who come together, the people who support our community, those who volunteer, those who are involved in the churches and clubs.
“We have a really fantastic community here in South Gippsland,” Cr Hersey said.
Natalie Bar (7 Sunrise): We just want to say our thoughts are also with Ian Wilkinson, of course the pastor, who's fighting for his life. He is now on the liver transplant list. So, we want to pass on our thoughts and our prayers to him and your whole community. Thank you, Nathan.”
See Sunrise interview with South Gippsland Mayor Cr Nathan Hersey: https://7news.com.au/video/news/victorian-town-of-korumburra-in-shock-after-three-locals-died-after-eating-toxic-mushrooms-bc-6332750116112?utm_campaign=share-icons&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=clipboard&tid=1691622623689
Speaking to the Sentinel-Times later in the day, Cr Hersey said it was inevitable that the incident would attract wide attention but was concerned to see that South Gippsland retained its reputation as a great destination for visitors, while providing wonderful lifestyle for residents.
Council condolences
The council expressed its ‘heartfelt condolences’ in its ‘In The Know’ newsletter this week
"The deaths of three well-respected members of our community — and the serious condition of another — have shocked and saddened us all.
"Many of us knew them well due to their contribution to the Korumburra community and the significant contribution they have made to education, religious and community support organisations. This loss will be felt greatly for a long time.
"Council has been in touch with the family and will do what we can to support them. They are taking strength from the community rallying around them — demonstrating the same caring qualities that they would have extended to others during such a difficult time.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends and all of you who are impacted by this loss."
