Club steps up after family’s tragic loss

THE South Darwin Rugby Union women players are ­rallying around Peter Baker and his three children after the loss of their cheeky and lovable wife and mother, Dorothy.

Robert Baker, with sons Jack, 8, and Reecee, 6, is thankful for the support of the South

THE South Darwin Rugby Union women players are ­rallying around Peter Baker and his three children after the loss of their cheeky and lovable wife and mother, Dorothy.

“Dotty” Parker, 44, lost her life to melioidosis on March 2, a soil-borne bacteria prevalent during the wet season.

The club is hoping to raise funds to pay the cost of her ­funeral and provide support for the tight-knit family.

Mr Baker has welcomed the love and support the team has given him and his family.

“It’s beyond awesome because I can’t do it on my own,” said Mr Baker, who is now caring for his two sons, Reecee, 6, and Jack, 8, and daughter Kyanne, 13.

“It’s hard to sum it up into words. The hardest thing is losing someone and then having people on your back for money,” he said.

A car wash at the Beachfront Hotel has been organised for Sunday and the first NT Rugby Union Women’s Competition on April 26 will be named in Dotty’s honour. There will be a range of fundraising events to remember the sporty and artistic mother.

Melioidosis normally invades the body through cuts and sores. To avoid contracting melioidosis wear waterproof footwear around mud, soil and areas of pooled water and wear gloves when handling soil or mud-soaked items.

For information on the events or to donate directly to the Darwin Funeral Home fund contact Yolande on 0407 616 675.