12th October 2002

On a balmy October night four years ago, hate and ignorance did this to an island that has a special place in my heart:

More than 200 people lost their lives in the Bali bombing; many more lost their livelihoods and businesses; innocence was destroyed.

On that day, four years ago, many also found courage they never knew they had. Like Gede Tanggal, who pulled people out from the flames at great risk to his own life.

Like John Duka who faced his injuries -- which included shrapnel lodged in his most sensitive areas -- with dignity and grace.

Like the volunteer doctors from Jakarta and nurses from Australia who sought out and tended to the locals who had been discharged too early from hospital.

I was privileged to learn their stories, to follow the volunteers, to go to Bali two weeks after the bombing, with 95kg of medical supplies donated by friends and families, to learn about the strength of the human spirit ...

We will never forget.