Tragedy at Tathra - a day in the news

Last night at Tathra (about 40 minutes drive north of Eden, just south of Bega), a young father jumped off the wharf and drowned while attempting to save his sons. It's a very sad story. I went to Tathra as chauffeur for my friend Phil, who is the local cameraman for WIN news, though this time he went in his capacity as photographer for the Daily Telegraph.

It's not much fun covering such a story, being surrounded by sadness all day. It's as if the elements reflected the feelings of those present, because it rained and the wind blew all day long.

There wasn't much to see, just an empty wharf with a few hopeful seagulls, their feathers disarranged by the wind.

Sara from the Eden Magnet came, and interviewed the Anglican minister who was providing free counseling.

News people came from far and wide. The Canberra Times was represented, and even Denham Hitchcock and Paul Collins from the Sydney networks were present, as well as the ABC crew.

The police came and had a look, but what was there to see?

Some of the relatives and friends of the family were upset at the presence of reporters. I heard that some inappropriate questions were asked, but I could see that a many of the news people really did care, and felt sad at what had happened.

The one bright spark in the day was the little 3 year old grandson of the cafe owner. Such a beautiful reminder that life does go on.

My heart goes out to the young woman who has lost her partner and children in one terrible blow.