A grieving family has issued a heartfelt public statement following a devastating fire at Bowen Mountain that has left the Hawkesbury community in shock.
In a message released on Wednesday, the Hughes family confirmed the loss of two young children, Myla Summer-Lea Hughes, 10, and River William Higgins, 3, describing the tragedy as an “unimaginable trauma” that has forever changed their lives.
The children are the daughter and son of Skye Hughes and David Higgins. At the time of the fire, five children were at the Bowen Mountain home, while another child was in Queensland with Ms Hughes.
The family said the children had been preparing to travel to Queensland to reunite with their mother and begin a new chapter together.
“This heartbreaking reality makes this unimaginable loss even more devastating for all who loved them,” the statement read.
The family also moved to clarify details surrounding the incident, saying some public reporting had not accurately reflected the circumstances. They urged media outlets and the public to rely only on confirmed information released by the family or official authorities.
In an emotional appeal, the Hughes family asked for privacy as they and the wider Bowen Mountain community come to terms with the tragedy.
“We request that the media respectfully withdraw from memorial spaces, community grieving sites, schools, and locations established by the children and families of Bowen Mountain,” the statement said.
“These spaces are sacred to our grieving community.”
The family expressed deep gratitude for the support they have received, thanking first responders, hospital staff, friends, and the wider Hawkesbury community for their compassion and generosity.
They also acknowledged the efforts of a family friend who established an official fundraising campaign to assist with the financial and practical challenges ahead.
“This tragedy has forever changed our family, but the extraordinary support of our community has reminded us that we do not stand alone,” the statement said.
As investigations continue, the family has indicated that they will not be making further public comment, asking instead for understanding, compassion and respect as they grieve.
An official GoFundMe fundraiser to support this family through the overwhelming emotional, financial and practical challenges has been established. For those wishing to support us, contributions can be made through this verified fundraiser.
https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-raise-funds-for-family-lost-house-and-missing-children
