Amy Gillett: Statement by the Acting Prime Minister

I was deeply saddened to learn about the terrible road accident in Germany that claimed the life of one of Australia's top women cyclists, Amy Gillett, and injured five others.

The accident occurred near Zeulenroda, 80 kilometres south of Leipzig, as members of the Australian Women's Road Cycling Team were preparing for the Tour of Thuringen race in southern Germany.

Amy Gillett was killed in the accident. Five other cyclists - Katie Brown, Lorian Graham, Kate Nicholls, Alexis Rhodes and Louise Yaxley - were injured, some critically. I know that every Australian is hoping for their speedy recovery. The Australian Government will do everything it can to assist both them and their families.

The Australian Ambassador, Pamela Fayle, has travelled to Zeulenroda and medical staff from the Australian Sports Commission are on their way to Germany.

Amy Gillett was a member of the Australian women's rowing team at the Atlanta Olympics in 1996. She was in the Australian World Cup cycling teams in 2002 and 2003 and had every chance of winning a gold medal at the 2006 Commonwealth Games in Melbourne.

On behalf of the Australian people, I want to express my deepest condolences to her family and friends.

Contact: Mr Vaile's office 02 6277 7420