Well wishes to the families involved in a fire pit explosion at Corlette on Sunday have been pouring in from the football fraternity this week.
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Gold Coast Titans head coach Garth Brennan said his “love and prayers” are with the Haxton family, of which two members were burned in the incident including teenager Hugh who on Thursday remained in hospital in a critical condition, and his father Alex.
Brennan, a former Newcastle Knights youth coach, shared his well wishes during a Titans press conference this week, explaining that his parents live next door to the Haxtons in Corlette.
“He’s a wonderful young man,” Brennan said of Hugh.
“Hughey, mate, stay strong. Fight hard, mate. I know you will.
“To his parents, Alex and Shauna, I wish you all the best. My love and prayers are with you guys.
“Get better real soon, Hugh.”
Five people, including 16-year-old Hugh and his father, Alex, 46, suffered burns during the explosion at their house on Sandy Point Road just after 5pm on May 6.
Nine News reported that a flammable liquid, believed to be methylated spirits, had been thrown on the fire.
Hugh, Alex and another man, aged 44, were taken to Royal North Shore Hospital while a third man and woman aged in their 40s were transported to John Hunter Hospital.
Fairfax Media reported that Hugh had suffered severe burns to his face, arms and torso.
A spokeswoman for Royal North Shore said on Thursday that Alex remained in hospital in a stable condition while the 44-year-old man had been discharged.
Police said the man and woman who were taken to John Hunter Hospital had been discharged.
Detectives are investigating how the explosion occurred.
The Haxtons were long-time sponsors of Maitland Rugby Club through their family business, Haxton Haulage.
Alex played for the Blacks for about 10 years and Hugh plays for the Nelson Bay Gropers.
Maitland Rugby Club issued a statement calling for the community to support the family.
“The time is now when we need positive thoughts and prayers for one of our own,” the statement on Facebook read.
“The Haxtons have been the one of the most supportive and generous families ever to call MRC home.
“In years gone past when the chips were down we could always call on the Haco’s in times of need ... it is now we need to rally together and return the favour.
“We will endeavor to keep you informed of progress but in the meantime say a prayer, muster your positive energy and send it on.”
Nelson Bay Junior Rugby Union also took to Facebook to share their well wishes for the families involved in the incident.
“All our love, thoughts, prayers, hopes and best wishes are vibing your way from your Rugby Community,” the statement read.
“All the Juniors are right behind Hughy and together with each others support and help we will all get through this. Your Community is right behind you whatever it takes.”
Nelson Bay Touch Football said it would do what it could to support the families during “this difficult time”.
“Touch Football is a close knit community and we are here to support each and every one of you,” the club posted to Facebook.
“We wish you all the best, you are all in our thoughts.”
Ellie-Marie Watts
A journalist with 10 years experience, Ellie-Marie connects readers to the stories that matter in their communities. A Port Stephens-based news, sport and event writer and photographer with a passion for human interest features.
A journalist with 10 years experience, Ellie-Marie connects readers to the stories that matter in their communities. A Port Stephens-based news, sport and event writer and photographer with a passion for human interest features.
