General News
26 November, 2024
Julia Creek in mourning after young mum killed in fatal crash
McKinlay Shire mayor Janene Fegan says the community is rallying behind the family.
Julia Creek has been rocked by the death of a local mum, who was killed when the car she was driving rolled last Tuesday.
Rebecca Smith was travelling along Wills Development Road through Taldora when the crash occurred around 5.50pm. She was on her way to the Julia Creek State School awards night, where her youngest daughter was waiting for her.
McKinlay Shire mayor Janene Fegan said the fatality had rocked the tight-knit community.
“It’s very devastating and as a council and a community we’re all doing our very best just to get by during this terrible time,” she said.
“It’s not only the family that gets impacted; it’s quite a network and it can be like a domino effect through the community.
“It does leave everyone feeling a bit numb and in disbelief.”
Ms Smith, 40, was an Australia Post contractor who was in charge of the “northern run” from Julia Creek Post Office, servicing mostly cattle stations in McKinlay Shire and surrounds.
Sarah Acton, who owns the post office in Julia Creek, said the mother-of-two would be missed.
“Bec was a friend and an employee. She will be greatly missed by the Julia Creek community. Our thoughts are with her girls and family,” Ms Acton said.
Since the tragedy, the community has been rallying behind the family.
A fundraiser has been set up to support Ms Smith’s two daughters, which had raised more than $17,000 at the time of writing – most of it from the Julia Creek community.
Family member Steven Dotchin, who started the fundraiser, said he wanted to “express my gratitude to all individuals who offer their love and support to the girls”.
“In light of this devastating event, her two daughters are not only grappling with the emotional impact of losing their mother but also facing the challenges associated with financial stability and housing arrangements,” he wrote.
“The funds raised through this campaign will be directed toward securing the girls’ futures, as well as facilitating their relocation, along with that of their horses and dogs.”
McKinlay Shire has also used its social media channels to provide avenues for emotional support within the community.
The council also engaged the mental health group Outback Futures to visit the community this week and provide outreach services to those in need.
“Our community, like a lot of small rural communities, really comes together and rallies around one another in times of tragedy,” Cr Fegan said.