Susanna Freymark
On November 5, Peter Walker’s family received heartbreaking news.
Peter had been killed in a car crash while on holiday with mates in New Zealand. He was 26.
His sister Portia Harbisher said that whenever there were hard times. Peter would be the first one she’d call.
“If anything went wrong, you’d call him and he’d answer, ‘What’s up, Sis?’”
She can’t call him now and she is heartbroken.
“When you love someone, did they know how loved they were?” Portia said.
Peter was the kindest, most loving, accepting, trustworthy person, she said.
He was the middle child and his siblings Portia and Declan were “firecrackers.”
“He was always calm and composed,” Portia said.
Peter worked as a disability support worker at Momentum in Casino.
He also had qualifications in animal care, brick laying and as a security guard.
“He did so much in that little life,” Portia said.
At the time of his death, Peter was getting his qualifications to work in the mines.
Portia said he was a “gentle giant.”
An online fundraiser has been set up to raise money to bring Peter home. More than $15,000 has already been raised.
The Kyogle Rugby Union Club contributed $2500.
“His rugby mates knew him as a loveable presence on the field,” Portia said.
Lance McQueen coached Peter.
“He was a really happy, positive, good bloke to have around,” Lance said.
“We’ll miss his big smile.”
Portia said she has been overwhelmed by the support and messages when people heard about Peter’s death.
She said it shows how loved he was.
The family are making arrangements to bring their boy home to Casino so they can say goodbye.
Peter was the cherished son of Peta Walker (Bundjalung) and Kenneth Fernando (Wonkamurra), and grandson of Pastor Peter and Maria Walker.
Peter was Nan’s favourite, Portia said.
Peter now waits to return to Country.
The fundraiser is here if you’d like to contribute.