I would like to acknowledge my sadness and shock at the incident which occurred in the Bourke Street Mall on Friday 20 January 2017. My thoughts and emotions are with the families of those injured or killed and I hope in time that the healing process will begin.

I would like to thank our volunteers and staff who attended the scene or supported Victoria Police and other emergency services throughout this event.

There are many people across Victoria SES who responded and supported our fellow community members in what was a most difficult and emotional time.

I particularly want to thank the Brimbank, Port Phillip, Northcote, Wyndham and Footscray SES Units for their rapid response. Over the next few weeks we will visit units to personally thank them and the staff who were involved.

Again, thank you all for your commitment and support in this tragic circumstance.

- Stephen Griffin, CEO Victoria State Emergency Service