Ex-MPs son dies in mishap
The son of former Labor MP Joel Fitzgibbon has died after a shocking parachute mishap at Richmond RAAF base on Wednesday night.
Lance Corporal Jack Fitzgibbon was performing a training drill at the Army base in Sydney’s west about 6.30pm when it is understood both his main and reserve parachutes failed to properly deploy.
Lance Corp Fitzgibbon suffered critical head and internal injuries and was rushed to Westmead Hospital, where he was on life support overnight until he passed away early on Thursday.
In a statement, Mr Fitzgibbon and his family said they were “devastated and heartbroken” at the death of their son, but took “some comfort from the fact that he died serving his nation”.
“We’re devastated and heartbroken by the loss of our wonderful Jack,” Mr Fitzgibbon said.
“Serving in the Special Forces was Jack’s dream job. We take some comfort from the fact that he died serving his nation in the uniform of the Australian Defence Force.
“Jack was a dedicated, highly skilled and courageous soldier.
“He was an experienced parachutist. Our lives will never be the same without Jack, but we will always remain proud of him and his many achievements.”
At a press conference on Thursday, ADF Acting Special Operations Commander James Kidd said training at the Richmond RAAF base had been suspended as soldiers came to terms with the tragic death of LCpl Fitzgibbon, who he said was “loved” by those who served alongside him.
“Jack was loved for his courage and known for his sense of humour, and his service to the country,” Act Sp Ops Comm
Kidd said. “Jack had served his country on operations abroad and also closer to home, serving with country and local communities as part of natural disaster responses.”
ADF medical staff who were in attendance for the training session performed first aid on Lance Corp Fitzgibbon, before NSW Ambulance paramedics arrived at the scene.
An investigation into the cause of the accident is underway and all parachute training has been suspended across the Australian Army for the time being.
“It was part of a routine military training exercise that was conducted around the Royal Australian Air Force base there in Richmond,” Act Sp Ops Comm Kidd said.
“We train parachuting exercises and operations with regularity.
“I am a Special Forces qualified parachutist, I know firsthand how difficult that particular military skill is and we demand paratroopers to reach the highest standard.
“The Defence investigation will likely take some time, we will review the points at which we recommence parachuting training.”