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Emotional sympathy from her sister after an army accident

Jack Fitzgibbon’s sister posted an emotional tribute to her brother on Instagram, describing him as her “guardian angel” who was “always” by her side.

Lance Corporal Fitzgibbon, the 33-year-old son of former federal MP Joel Fitzgibbon, was injured during a parachute exercise at RAAF Base Richmond on Wednesday evening.

The Australian military confirmed his death on Thursday afternoon.

In a statement, Hunter’s former MP and cabinet minister said the family was “devastated and heartbroken by the loss of our wonderful Jack.”

“It is of some consolation to us that he died in service to his country in an ADF uniform,” the former minister said.

“Jack was a dedicated, highly skilled and courageous soldier. He was an experienced parachutist.

“Our lives will never be the same without Jack, but we will always be proud of him and his many achievements.”

Grace Fitzgibbon paid tribute on Instagram to her brother, Lance Corporal Jack Fitzgibbon, who died this week in a military parachuting accident. Image: InstagramGrace Fitzgibbon paid tribute on Instagram to her brother, Lance Corporal Jack Fitzgibbon, who died this week in a military parachuting accident. Image: Instagram

Grace Fitzgibbon paid tribute on Instagram to her brother, Lance Corporal Jack Fitzgibbon, who died this week in a military parachuting accident. Image: Instagram

She described him as She described him as

She described him as “always the life of the party.” Image: Instagram

His sister Grace, a Channel 7 reporter, paid tribute to her brother in Instagram stories on Friday – sharing photos from their childhood and adult life as well as a screenshot of the last message he sent her.

“I love you my dear big brother, I am so proud of you,” she wrote.

“Forever our guardian angel.”

She shared her She shared her

She shared her “favorite photo of us.” Image: Instagram

Lance Corporal Fitzgibbon was 33 when he died. Image: InstagramLance Corporal Fitzgibbon was 33 when he died. Image: Instagram

Lance Corporal Fitzgibbon was 33 when he died. Image: Instagram

She shared a screenshot of their last text conversation in which he wrote, “I have a guest bed if you need it sis. I can help you move out on Wednesday if you need help.”

She wrote underneath: “He always supported me.”

She captioned a photo of the two as children, “from day one.”

The Prime Minister presided over the funeral on Thursday and said his thoughts were with the Fitzgibbon family.

“Today the burden of grief falls on a dear friend of so many members of the Labor family,” said Anthony Albanese.

“This tragic accident is a harsh reminder that there are no easy days for those who defend our country.

“We are so grateful to every Australian who serves and stands up for all of us.”

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton, his defence spokesman Andrew Hastie and his deputy spokesman Phil Thompson said Lance Corporal Fitzgibbon “loved his country and felt called to serve it”.

“At this moment of devastation and grief for the Fitzgibbon family and Jack’s comrades and friends, we pay tribute to a young man of admirable character who embodied the best of our country,” the trio said in a statement.