Christmas is a time when loved ones are fondly remembered in many families and so it was in a very special service at St Anne's Church in Yaraka last Saturday.
The tiny community south of Longreach lost one of its own, Jack Joseland, in a tragic aerial mustering accident earlier in the year and were together for the annual Christmas service when Jack's parents Tim and Kerry brought in a quilted wall hanging to be hung and dedicated to his memory.
Featuring the outback scenes and rangeland goats that Jack loved, it was made by family friend Wendy Blumson, who shared a special bond with Jack.
In 2006 Jack received a Queensland Ambulance Service Young Hero of the Year Award for bravery.
Aged 12 at the time, the car he was in hit a tree, leaving his tutor, Ms Blumson trapped behind the steering wheel.
Far North Region assistant commissioner Rick Stranger said Jack's brave actions in running for help saved his teacher's life.
"Jack and Wendy were on a very remote dirt road when the accident occurred," Mr Stranger said.
"If it wasn't for Jack running to the nearest property to sound the alert we wouldn't have been able to get there as quickly as we did and be prepared to extricate Wendy out of the vehicle.
"Remembering Jack was also in this accident and was in shock and suffering his own injuries, he still managed to kick open the passenger door and run for help and relay what happened.
"His brave act ensured his teacher is here with us today - he is a hero."
"Wendy made this quilt with love and skill for us all to remember our great mate," said Jack's aunt Susan Glasson.
Rev. Beth O'Neill dedicated the framed quilt to Jack's love of the land and the Yaraka community and said that it will always be there in Jack's memory as a reminder of the inspiration and friendship that he gave to the community.
Friends, family and visitors will be welcome to see the beautiful tribute as it hangs in St Anne's Church.
Jack was one of those true bush characters, quiet in nature with a cheeky grin and a huge love for the bush and his life on the land.
Sally Gall
Based at Blackall, CW Qld, where I've raised a family, run Merino sheep and beef cattle, and helped develop a region - its history, tourism, education and communications. Get in touch at 0427 575 955 if you've got a story idea for me.
Based at Blackall, CW Qld, where I've raised a family, run Merino sheep and beef cattle, and helped develop a region - its history, tourism, education and communications. Get in touch at 0427 575 955 if you've got a story idea for me.
