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Young lives remembered as families give thanks by Pip Miller 21 November 2015
T
he lives of eight Manoora children will be remembered and honoured a year on from their tragic deaths, as their families give thanks to the broader community for its unwavering support. A public, family-friendly event, titled Serer Ge Buai Giz - Au Esoau Kemer Kemer Uteb Narid (Celebrating Family - Thanking The Wider Community), will be held on Saturday 19 December in honour of the children, giving their friends and families the opportunity to remember the good times they had together. “December 19 is going to be a difficult day for a lot of people,” Community Healing Project Coordinator Michael White said. “We want the children of Manoora and the wider community to know that it’s okay for them to be happy and to focus on the positive things in their lives. “By coming together to play, have fun and remember, they can honour their friends in the best possible way. “The day will also be a chance for those closest to the tragedy to thank the community for the
Community Healing Project Coordinator Michael White, Event Coordinator Karen Vallantyre and James Gela from Keriba Yadayl Torres Strait Islander Corporation discuss plans for the Murray St deaths anniversary. Image: Stewart McLean, Cairns Post
support that has been so willingly offered during the past 12 months.” The family event will include a range of children’s activities such as a waterslide, climbing wall, jumping castle, circus activities and arts activities. Players from the Cairns Taipans will lead basketball activities and there will be an Auskick Football clinic. The event will be held at Stan Williams Park - Brothers Leagues Football Club – Behan Street
Manunda from 1pm to 5.30pm. A concert will follow at the venue from 6pm to 8pm. A pastoral service and tree planting ceremony will be held in remembrance on Sunday 20 December from 11am to 1pm at Green Park, Murray Street, Manoora. Further details of both events will be released in the coming weeks.
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