The Frankston community is mourning the loss of Carmel Russell, a long-time resident and advocate for victims’ rights, who passed away on Sunday, 22 December.
Carmel was widely known for her unwavering commitment to honouring the memory of her daughter Natalie Russell, who was tragically murdered in 1993 by serial killer Paul Denyer. Natalie’s death was a devastating event for the Frankston community, leaving a lasting impact and prompting widespread calls for change.
In a statement released by Frankston City Council, Mayor Cr Kris Bolam JP expressed condolences and paid tribute to Carmel’s legacy.
“Carmel’s passing is a significant loss for Frankston. She and her husband Brian showed extraordinary strength in the face of heartbreak. Carmel’s dedication to ensuring Natalie’s legacy lived on, as well as her advocacy for public safety, will always be remembered,”
Mayor Bolam said.
Carmel and Brian Russell were instrumental in the creation of ‘Nat’s Track,’ a walking path in Frankston established in memory of Natalie. The track, which received a significant upgrade in 2021, now features a bronze sculpture of a school bag adorned with 17 everlasting daisies—one for each year of Natalie’s life.
The Russells also campaigned for legislative reform, culminating in the 2023 passing of ‘Nat’s Law.’ This legislation limits the ability of convicted murderers and sex offenders to make repeated parole applications, sparing victims’ families further emotional distress.
Bolam highlighted the impact Carmel had on the community, not only through her advocacy but also her compassion and support for other families affected by violent crime. Carmel and Brian faced challenges of their own, including a near loss of their home in 2019, but remained pillars of strength within the community.
“Carmel’s love for her family and her determination to create positive change in the wake of tragedy were extraordinary. Her loss is deeply felt, particularly by her husband Brian,”
said Mayor Bolam.
Paul Edbrooke MP, who worked closely with Carmel and her family on their advocacy efforts, shared a personal message of grief following her passing.
“It was very sad to receive a message from the family on Sunday that Carmel Russell had passed away. I had tears in my eyes,”
Mr Edbrooke said in his statement on Facebook.
“Last time I saw Carmel, we had a good chat by her bedside about delivering the justice that her family had been fighting for 30 years to achieve. My concern was that Carmel might not be around to see that justice delivered.
“I will never forget that day in October 2023. The image of Carmel and Brian’s faces when we delivered the news to them in their home over a cup of tea is unforgettable to me. They achieved justice and could finally rest.Carmel was an amazing woman who possessed a strength, resilience, and beautiful kindness I’d never seen before. Carmel had told me that she took comfort knowing that she would see Natalie again, and I hope they are together right now.”
Mr Edbrooke concluded his statement by extending his thoughts to Brian and the rest of the Russell family.
“My thoughts are with Brian, Janine, Lisa, family, and friends at this time. Vale, Carmel Russell.”
A fundraising campaign has been launched to assist the Russell family with funeral expenses.
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