Federal MP Haines Upgraded to Stable After Double Amputation

Independent federal MP Helen Haines was moved to a serious but stable condition on Saturday morning.

Haines, the member for Indi in north east Victoria, 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 amputation of both limbs. A spokesperson for The Alfred hospital in Melbourne confirmed the change in status, noting that her condition had previously been described as critical but stable.

The driver, Brendan Nugent, 43, of Tarrawingee, appeared at Wangaratta Magistrates Court on Wednesday. He faces five charges, including dangerous driving causing serious injury, intentionally causing serious injury, and the Commonwealth offence of causing harm to a public official. Court documents indicate he was also charged with cultivating and possessing cannabis. He did not apply for bail during his hearing.

Haines's husband, Phil Haines, addressed reporters outside the hospital on Wednesday. He described his wife as having a huge heart and the sharpest intellect, stating that both her heart and mind are in good shape. He encouraged supporters to direct financial support to a special appeal for Save the Children while Helen recovers. More than $730,000 has been raised for the charity in her honour.

Haines's staff announced on Friday that they hope to reopen her electorate offices next Thursday. The team noted that many staff members witnessed the incident and were among the first to provide assistance. They asked for understanding as they take time to look after themselves and one another.

The incident has prompted wider discussions about security risks for members of parliament and the tone of political debate. In Western Australia, police charged a 56 year old man after he allegedly threatened staff and wielded nunchucks at the office of state minister Hannah Beazley, days after the Wangaratta crash. A community vigil was held in Wodonga on Wednesday evening, where Cathy McGowan, Haines's predecessor as the member for Indi, said the community was dealing with mixed emotions.