THE region’s councils joined with hundreds of other government agencies around the country yesterday when flags were flown at half mast in memory of the victims of doomed Malaysia Airlines flight MH17.
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A national day of mourning was declared yesterday to remember the 38 Australian citizens and residents who were among 298 passengers and crew killed when the plane was shot down over the Ukraine on July 17.
Tamworth Regional and Gunnedah Shire councils were among those around the region that lowered the flags at council buildings.
Gunnedah mayor Owen Hasler said it was important for the shire to show its respect to those who lost their lives.
“This is a sad day for all Australians and we send our thoughts, prayers and well wishes to those personally affected by this tragedy,” Cr Hasler said.
“By lowering the Australian and state flags, council and the local community extend their support for the 500 workers overseas in their ongoing attempts to bring the victims, many of whom were children, home to Australia.”
Gunnedah woman Val Kelly’s sister Carol Clancy and her husband Michael were on board the flight, while a number of students at St Mary’s College Gunnedah were friends of Perth children Mo, Otis and Evie Maslin, who were also killed. St Mary’s was also where Mrs Kelly and Mrs Clancy boarded during their high school years.