Deputy Speaker,

I’m saddened by the passing of Shirley Shackleton in Melbourne on 15 January at the age of 91.

She was a life-long campaigner for Timor-Leste’s freedom.

Shirley Vern married Channel 7’s Greg Shackleton, and Greg of course was one of the Balibo Five journalists murdered in 1975.

Shirley fought for decades, including visiting the UK to advocate for East Timor in the early 1990s.

Shirley also played a central role in persuading former Victorian premier Steve Bracks to turn the house in Balibo where the journalists had sought refuge into a memorial.

Shirley is mourned by her son Evan, family, and friends around the world.

Bernard Collaery, Timor-Leste President Jose Ramos-Horta, and American public intellectual Noam Chomsky have all praised her.

I would also like to pay tribute to Jill Jolliffe, a journalist and author of the book “Balibo” who passed away on 2 December at age 77.

Jill grew up in Geelong and was educated at Monash University before visiting East Timor in 1975 as a student.

She reported on it ever since.

Jill is remembered as an intrepid war correspondent who risked her safety to do her vital work.

To Shirley and Jull – Obrigrado barak!

May these strong women rest in peace.