Release date: 09/06/22

The Malinauskas Government will provide $15,000 towards the establishment of a memorial garden for the late CFS senior firefighter Louise Hincks.

A much loved and respected volunteer at the Happy Valley CFS brigade, Louise was fatally struck by a falling tree while battling a bushfire at Coles, near Lucindale, in the South East in January this year.

The garden will be located at the Happy Valley CFS station and will be built on an existing grassed area.

It will house up to four cherry blossom plants – Louise’s favourite tree – a garden bed, a plinth stone with a commemoration plaque, three benches and two paintings within the garden.

The CFS Foundation has offered to co-ordinate the building and establishment of this garden.


Quotes

Attributable to Peter Malinauskas

Louise Hincks was a hero.

The State Government hopes the funding will assist in providing an endless tribute to Louise for her family, friends and fellow CFS colleagues.

Her bravery to protect the lives of South Australians will forever remind us of the true definition of service.

Attributable to Joe Szakacs

Louise was highly respected by her peers and a much-loved member of the CFS.

The tragic incident that took Louise’s life reinforces the sacrifices that our brave firefighters continuously make to protect their communities.

Assisting in the funding of the memorial garden shows the Malinauskas Government’s commitment to our emergency services volunteers.

Attributable to Erin Thompson

This tragedy deeply impacted the wider community.

Constructing a memorial garden will ensure that Louise’s legacy lives on forever.

Not only will Louise’s family, friends and colleagues be able to visit the garden to remember her, but the broader community will be reminded of her sacrifice and dedication each time they walk or drive past.