On this night (23 December) 40 years ago, the worst cyclone in Australia’s history hit Darwin, tearing the city apart.
For many Territorians the pain of that stolen Christmas 40 years ago is remains very real and I know that this will be an emotional few days for many survivors.
But I would like those survivors to know that just like 1974, your fellow-Territorians are here for you, to support you and help you through this difficult time.
Never has our Territory spirit been more on display than in the months that followed Tracy.
As a community, we pulled together and rebuilt the great city that we know today. This should be a source of great Territory pride.
Sixty-six people died and 80 per cent of the city’s homes were destroyed but people decided to come back and help with the rebuilding effort.
On this 40th Anniversary, I ask Territorians to reflect on the great debt we owe to those who pulled Darwin out of the rubble and laid the groundwork for our great northern capital.
Out of the city’s darkest hour came its greatest triumph – a new city that has still not lost any of its Territory charm.
I also ask Territorians to reflect tonight also on their preparedness for another such disaster and to make sure they are ready should a cyclone come our way this wet season.
We have come a long way in four decades but Territorians will never forget the terror inflicted on the city 40 years ago tonight or those who lost their lives in the disaster.