Donations for MP Helen Haines exceed $730,000 after Wangaratta incident

A fundraising campaign for federal MP Helen Haines has collected more than $730,000 for Save the Children. The total reflects contributions from the local community and residents across Australia and internationally.

The funds are being raised in Haines's honor following her injury in Wangaratta. Her husband, Phil Haines, encouraged supporters to donate to the charity's special appeal while she recovers.

The Alfred hospital in Melbourne updated Haines's status on Saturday morning. The spokesperson stated the patient is in a serious but stable condition. This represents an improvement from the critical but stable status reported earlier in the week.

Haines represents the Victorian seat of Indi. She was struck by a vehicle on Monday afternoon near her electorate office. Surgeons attempted to save her right leg but performed a double amputation due to the severity of her injuries.

Police have charged Brendan Nugent, 43, of Tarrawingee, with dangerous driving causing serious injury and intentionally causing serious injury. He also faces the commonwealth offence of causing harm to a public official. Court documents list two additional charges for cultivating and possessing cannabis. Nugent appeared at Wangaratta magistrates court on Wednesday and did not apply for bail.

Phil Haines spoke outside the hospital on Wednesday. He described his wife's heart and mind as being in good shape. He called her a compassionate and caring person with a sharp intellect.

Haines's staff announced on Friday that they hope to reopen the electorate offices next Thursday. The team noted that many staff members witnessed the incident and provided initial aid. The staff said they are taking time to care for one another while the MP recovers.

The incident has prompted discussions regarding security for members of parliament. In Western Australia, police charged a 56-year-old man after he threatened staff at another electoral office. A community vigil for Haines was held in Wodonga on Wednesday evening. Former MP Cathy McGowan told attendees the community is dealing with mixed emotions.