Ranges Trader
Flight from Mexico
Vic goes home
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Tuesday, 22 September, 2020
A Star News Group Publication
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Harper’s legacy By Mitchell Clarke
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“Of course our kids, to ourselves, are the best things ever, but I knew Harper was amazing even before he was here,” Jacinda explained.
“He had a thirst and an energy for life that seemed unparalleled. He was an incredibly active baby and a terrible sleeper, and his father
Picture: GARY SISSONS
was the same, it was almost like they both knew they didn’t have long here. Continued page 7
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Kiah and Jacinda Erich with some of the rubbish they have picked up in honour of Harper’s quest. 215736
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Harper and his mum Jacinda
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The face of an inspirational young boy, who was killed by a large falling tree, has gone global, as his family make it their mission to honour his noble quest. Harper Wilson, 10, died in a freak accident alongside his father Matt as they drove through the Dandenong Ranges on 14 July 2019. Harper’s mother Jacinda was home alone at 10pm when she received the tragic news that both her son and his father had passed away. She recalled the “outpouring of support” she received from the community in the days, weeks and months following the heartbreaking accident. Jacinda Erich, who grew up in Emerald and now lives in Cockatoo, said the Hills community saw her through the most difficult period of her life. “My community rallied around me to raise nearly $30,000. There was an absolute outpouring of support,” she said. “Community is something that was bred in me and the Hills are my home, so it felt like a really big family. There were people everywhere just helping me where they could, and there was nothing left for me to do. It was actually quite an overwhelming feeling.” While the grief will never truly leave Jacinda, she’s turned her heartbreak into passion in order to ensure her beloved young boy is remembered, and his inspiring message is heard. Harper was a popular boy who achieved more than many in his short life, and is remembered as a “passionate little bunny” with a love for animals and the environment. His journey to conservation came from a childhood filled with “wonder and curiosity”. He became aware of global issues such as whaling, climate change and deforestation at a young age, and instead of feeling defeated, Harper used his knowledge to make a lasting change.