Haines stable after double amputation

Independent federal MP Helen Haines is in a serious but stable condition after losing both legs in a vehicle strike near her electorate office in north-east Victoria. Her status was upgraded from critical but stable earlier in the week. A spokesperson for The Alfred hospital in Melbourne provided the update on Saturday morning.

Haines was struck by a car in Wangaratta on Monday afternoon. Surgeons initially attempted to save her right leg, but the severity of the injuries required the amputation of both limbs. Her husband, Phil Haines, spoke outside the hospital on Wednesday. He stated that both her heart and her mind are in good shape, describing her as having a huge heart and the sharpest intellect.

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

Haines's staff said on Friday that they hope to reopen her electorate offices next Thursday. The team noted that many staff members witnessed the incident and some were among the first to provide aid. They stated that they will take time to look after themselves and one another while Haines recovers. The staff also expressed gratitude for the kindness shown by the Indi community and supporters across Australia and around the world.

More than $730,000 has been raised for Save the Children in Haines's honour. Her husband encouraged supporters to donate to the charity's special appeal while his wife recovers. The incident has prompted discussion in Australian politics regarding security risks for members of parliament and mental health services in regional areas. In Western Australia, police charged a 56-year-old man with threatening staff and wielding nunchucks at the office of minister Hannah Beazley days after the Wangaratta incident. A community vigil for Haines was held in Wodonga on Wednesday evening. Cathy McGowan, Haines's predecessor, said the community was dealing with mixed emotions.