The messages and statements below were written prior to this Condolences book being placed on our website.
Messages and Statements - 19th January 2004
* 3AW is accustomed to reporting on tragedies but today the loss was one of their own. It was supposed to be a grand day for Melbourne's parochial station: David Hookes and Gerard Healy were to present their first Sports Today program of the year from the Australian Open, and there was also a tinge of trepidation as the reincarnated 3AK went to air as the Sports Entertainment Network.
* Everyone at 3AW was struggling with the shock of David Hookes's situation. Morning host Neil Mitchell said David Hookes was a loved member of the 3AW family. "It's strange when you report these things week after week, and when it hits close to home you can really feel it," Neil Mitchell said. "I found out about 4.30am and it knocked the stuffing out of me". "He was a very gentle man" Neil said.
* 3AW Program director Clark Forbes said, "Hookes was different from his public persona. He was a very nice bloke and well-liked around the place,". Forbes said the chemistry between Hookes and Healy was the driving force of Sports Today. "They were like an old married couple," Forbes said. "They were the yin and yang that made a great program."
Referring to the recent attack on boxer Jeff Fenech, Clark Forbes said a black cloud hovered over the freedom of sporting figures to venture out in public. "Does this mean anyone with a sporting profile can't go out at night anymore? It's appalling if this is what we've sunk to," he said.
* Prime Minister - John Howard
The tragic death of David Hookes, in such violent circumstances, will sadden not only cricket fans but all Australians.
He was an exciting and accomplished test cricketer, a talented broadcaster and an immensely likeable person. His ability and enthusiasm gave inspiration and encouragement to many young cricketers.
To his wife and family I extend my deepest sympathy. There are many of their fellow Australians who will be thinking of them tonight.
* Cricket Australia chairman - Bob Merriman offered condolences to David's family.
"Australian cricket mourns the passing of David Hookes," he said. "On behalf of Australian cricket, I offer our deepest condolences to David Hookes's family and all those near and dear to him. "All Australian cricket lovers will be in shock at the news of his tragic passing."
* Victorian Bushrangers captain - Darren Berry said: "On behalf of the Victorian players, both past and present, I would like to offer our deepest condolences to the family and friends of our coach, David Hookes.
"David has been both a friend and a mentor to all of us and we are devastated by his passing," Darren Berry said.
A long-time friend of David Hookes, Graham Cornes, says he is in shock at his death.
"Just devastation, I was so confident this morning that he'd be able to pull through, that he'd be able to recover," Mr Cornes said.
* Paramedic - Marcus Stacey told how applying CPR to David Hookes had been a daunting task.
"When it became apparent who the patient was, having that person as a childhood hero, it does make it a little bit challenging," he said.
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David Willliam Hookes 1955-2004
