Quentin Bryce's tribute to victim Katrina Dawson

December 16, 2014

Katrina Dawson, killed in the Sydney siege: 'Our country has lost a shining star'

Former Governor-General Quentin Bryce was principal of the Women's College at the University of Sydney while siege victim Katrina Dawson was the senior student.

She was devastated to learn that Katrina had died during the Martin Place siege early Tuesday morning. She wrote this statement in honour the former student:

"Our country has lost a shining star.

"Katrina Dawson, brilliant mind, joie de vivre spilling over, talented sportswoman, one of those rare natural leaders. Confident, courageous, out-front, articulate, warm and funny, but thoughtful, gentle and understanding too.

"She was much loved by our community of scholars at Women's College where she was my senior student. I admired her strength of purpose and character. We knew she had a great future ahead of her, a life of achievement and contribution.

"Oh the tragic loss, the deepest sadness, the awful grief for her family who gave her joy, happiness, a true sense of security.

"How will they bear the unbearable?

"We will wrap our arms around them to give them strength."