Thursday, 13 August 2026

 Bev McARTHUR (Western Victoria) (09:58): Alexandra Margaret Mann, known as ‘Lal’, entered our world on 8 November 1982, and she left our world on 5 July 2026. Lal was wife to Charlie and a devoted mother to Edward, Stirling and Alexander. Lal was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer while breastfeeding Alexander, aged one. She stoically fought the fatal disease for 7½ years, offering her body to every potential new cure despite sometimes enduring horrendous side effects. At no time did she ever complain or did she ever not smile, always caring about the welfare of those around her and the wider community. It was noted at a celebration of her life that she was a beautiful person inside and out. Lal was an inspiration to everyone who had the privilege of knowing her, and we all embrace with love and sympathy Charlie and her beloved three boys. She was also a scholar, an amazing contributor academically. Rest in peace, Lal. I say to all those suffering from this dreaded disease or who have sadly left us: we care about you, and we wish that there be minimal deaths going forward.