Opposition Leader Sussan Ley has expressed her profound grief following the passing of her mother, Angela Braybrooks, early this morning in an aged care facility located in Albury, southern New South Wales. In her heartfelt statement, Ley shared that this loss has affected her and her family deeply.
Angela Braybrooks was a dedicated mental health nurse who positively impacted many lives throughout her career. Ley reflected on how her mother instilled in her the values of resilience, self-reliance, and determination. She recalled Angela’s childhood in wartime Britain, noting that her mother could never have imagined that her daughter would one day become Australia’s first female Leader of the Opposition, a milestone Ley achieved just days before her mother’s passing.
Ley indicated that her mother was a continual source of inspiration throughout her life. She highlighted the poignant timing of their last Mother’s Day celebration just a few days prior, revealing a touching moment arranged by their parish priest. He encouraged Angela to hold on in anticipation of witnessing a significant event in her daughter’s life, promising a celebratory champagne toast.
On the evening of her leadership announcement, Ley made the journey back to her mother’s bedside. Although Angela was unable to speak, Ley observed that her mother was attentively following her press conference. Upon entering the room afterward, Ley felt grateful that her mother’s eyes lit up with excitement, a cherished memory she will hold dear.
Ley took the opportunity to extend her gratitude to everyone who offered their condolences and expressed appreciation to the staff at Riverwood Aged Care Facility for their care during this difficult time.