Former MP urges community to reject violence after attack on Helen Haines
Cathy McGowan warned that the assault on MP Helen Haines threatens Australian democracy, while Haines remains in critical condition after a vehicle-ramming that led to double leg amputation.
Cathy McGowan addressed a crowd in Wodonga, describing the violent assault on her Indi successor Helen Haines as an attack on the entire democratic system and a source of deep grief for northeast Victoria. Haines, 65, was critically injured on Monday when a Tarrawingee resident drove a vehicle into her outside her electoral office, leading to the amputation of both legs. The suspect, Brendan Nugent, appeared before Wangaratta Magistrates Court and did not apply for bail.
McGowan noted that Governor-General Sam Mostyn and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese have expressed condolences to the community. A coalition of state MPs and nine regional mayors issued a joint statement rejecting political intimidation and urging citizens to uphold civility ahead of the upcoming Victorian election.
Why it matters
The attack highlights rising threats to elected officials and raises concerns about women's safety in politics.
How this story developed
- Oct 19 Independent MP Helen Haines critically injured in vehicle attack, suspect detained
- Oct 19 The arrested driver was transferred to Wangaratta Police Station.
- Oct 20 The suspect has been formally charged and will appear in court on Wednesday.
- Oct 20 Helen Haines, an independent federal MP, was struck by a vehicle outside her Victorian office, losing one leg and fighting to save the other. Police have charged 43-year-old Brendan Nugent with multiple offences related to the attack.
- Oct 21 A magistrate denied bail and ordered Nugent detained pending a February hearing.
- Oct 21 Both of Haines' legs were amputated following the attack.
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