Ms DAWKINS (Bass) - Madam Speaker, I rise tonight to echo the sentiments of those in the community who have commemorated the life of Voula Delios, the North Hobart grocer who was stabbed to death whilst working in her store on 23 July.
Arriving in Hobart last year, I immediately sought the comfort of a local cafe and a local store to ground myself. Walking into the North Hobart grocer and being welcomed by Voula reminded me of times past when the owner of the store was behind the counter, the cornerstone of the community. She welcomed people with warmth and sincerity and seemed to genuinely delight in customer contact. This is in stark contrast to the individual who decided that dear Voula was an easy target. Voula's supermarket must have struggled competing against bigger, slicker stores. Maybe this is why she worked so hard to provide for her family. She always seemed to be there.
The notion that someone saw Voula working and formulated a plan to rob this defenceless woman, and in doing so take her life, is beyond comprehension. It was reported that Voula never criticised a soul or said an ugly word. I think anyone who attended her store felt that. The world is a far worse place for Voula no longer being in it.
Members - Hear, hear.