THE grieving family of Glen Turner have spoken for the first time about the overwhelming support they’ve received since the loving father-of-two was gunned down just over three weeks ago.
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In an exclusive interview with The Leader, Mr Turner’s life-partner, Alison McKenzie, and his sister, Fran Pearce, said the horrific killing has been nothing but harrowing. Struggling to come to terms with the unfolding events, the family, together with those closest, have rallied together in Dungowan and have been moved by the actions of those both near and far.
The 51-year-old Tamworth-based officer with the Office of Environment and Heritage was killed in a shooting on a remote road north of Moree while he was inspecting a road reserve on July 29.
Inundated with heartfelt messages from family, close friends, colleagues, locals and even strangers, Ms McKenzie and Mrs Pearce said the family had been overcome with the generosity and wanted to “publicly thank everyone who has provided assistance, whether it be professionally, financially, practically and emotionally.”
“There are too many to thank individually,” Alison told The Leader.
“Your assistance and support is greatly appreciated.”
No two days have been the same since the shock passing of Glen, but the support continues to roll in as the weeks go by.
A trust fund has been established for Glen’s immediate family to help them recover.
They’ve expressed their utmost appreciation for the donations.
In particular, the family wanted to publicly acknowledge the support of Glen’s colleagues at the Office of Environment and Heritage, chief executive Terry Bailey, along with Environment Minister Rob Stokes.
Friends and family, the Tamworth Public School community and P & C Association, as well as Moree police, had also been instrumental over the past few weeks.
The memorial service in Dungowan a fortnight ago drew hundreds of friends, family, colleagues, former workmates, football players, and the men and women who encountered the environmental officer.
The family said they were “overwhelmed” with the generosity and love and support they received.
“Glen loved a celebration and drawing people together for a common cause. It seems fitting that he has continued to do this with his death,” Fran said.
And while they admitted they didn’t know everyone who had come forward, every single little thought, prayer or message had made a difference.
The family know they will never overcome what’s happened, but are continuing to forge ahead with the memory of the man who was “unforgettable”.
“There has been countless messages, notes, calls, offers of support – too many to mention,” Mrs Pearce said.
Alison said everyday they were reminded of the life he lived and his passions for the environment, his family, the outdoors and his favourite pastime, home brewing.
And, it is with these memories, they are determined for Glen to be remembered for the life that he lived, not the way he died.
The family are the first to admit it’s not going to be easy, but they will be doing it for the devoted partner, father, son, brother, friend and colleague.
The legacy that he left is what they are striving for everyone to think of when they think of the “all round good bloke”, “the larrikin who had an infectious outlook on life”. You can donate to the appeal for the family of Glen Turner. The 51-year-old is survived by his life-partner Alison, and young children, Alexandra and Jack.
Contributions for the family can be made through the Commonwealth Bank.
Account name: Glen Turner Trust, Commonwealth Bank Tamworth
BSB: 062602
Account name: 10601120
All funds will go directly and immediately to the family.
