Appeal for donations for Louise Hincks memorial garden at Happy Valley

As a local charity and CFS brigade appeal for donations to build a memorial garden for volunteer Louise Hincks, the state government has come to the party.

The construction of a memorial garden to honour brave firefighter Louise Hincks, who died protecting the community, depends on public donations.

Ms Hincks, 44, was killed when she was hit by a falling branch at a blaze near Lucindale in January.

Matt McGrath, a friend of Ms Hincks and fellow volunteer at the Happy Valley CFS said she had been an important part of the brigade for five years, and a garden was an important tribute.

“It was kind of everyone’s idea, but I put it to the brigade and said let’s get this happening,” Mr McGrath said.

The garden will be based near the southern suburbs brigade and will include her favourite cherry blossom trees, but has an estimated cost of $25,000 due to landscaping issues.

The state government announced a donation to the cause on Thursday which will take funds close to the targeted amount.

Artist’s impression of the Louise Hincks memorial garden at the Happy Valley CFS. Picture: supplied

Ms Hincks was a devoted mother of two and first joined the CFS in 1994. She had previously worked to provide mental health support to dozens of volunteers.

CFS Foundation chief executive officer Gloria Berni said $5000 had been donated by the Onkaparinga Council but she encouraged members of the community to get on board.

“Louise volunteered her life, she’d been a volunteer for 20 years and ended up dying because she was fighting for us, so we think it’s very important,” Ms Berni said.

Mr McGrath hoped the garden could be used by the whole community and particularly Ms Hincks’s daughters who do not like the cemetery.

Louise Hincks who tragically lost her life when she was struck by a burning branch while fighting a fire near Lucindale. Picture: Supplied by family

“They lived quite close to the station so the girls walk through there after school from the bus, so it’s going to give them a place to go,” he said.

Liberal spokesman for Emergency Services Adrian Pederick said the state government should contribute to donations.

“I’ve thrown my support behind this cause and hope others will too, to see this garden built as soon as possible the way Louise deserves,” Mr Pederick said.

“Some may not be able to donate because of cost of living pressures, so I’m really hoping the government can also get behind this great initiative.”

The state government announced a $15,000 contribution on Thursday.

Premier Peter Malinauskas described Ms Hincks as a hero.

“Her bravery to protect the lives of South Australians will forever remind us of the true definition of service,” he said.

Local member Erin Thompson said Ms Hinck’s friends and family will be able to visit the garden to remember her, and the broader community will be reminded of her sacrifice every time they walk or drive past.

Donate to the memorial garden fundraiser here.