PARENTS all around the country would have hugged their precious children a little tighter than usual on Thursday night following the tragic events in Devonport.
The deaths of young five children as they innocently celebrated the conclusion of the school year has cut deeply at the end of an already emotionally draining year.
If it is especially cruel to have happened so close to Christmas, it is positively barbaric that these children were killed while literally jumping for joy.
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The subsequent outpouring of collective sorrow has served as a timely reminder that the citizens of this seemingly increasingly fractured country can still come together in times of crisis.
It is also a reminder that we are stronger as one than as many, a truism that feels like it has been forgotten in recent years.
While we will never understand why such devastating events occur, we do understand better than ever their impact.
That is why is was pleasing Prime Minister Scott Morrison, who visited Hillcrest Primary School on Saturday, announced $800,000 for counselling and mental health support.
There is also talk of creating a permanent memorial at the school to celebrate the lives and commemorate the deaths of the five children.
For those somewhat removed from the tragedy but still affected, there is support available by calling Lifeline on 13 11 14.
The Daily Advertiser team's thoughts are with all those impacted by this unimaginable tragedy.
Ross Tyson, editor
