Having listened back when Gough Whitlam gave his ‘well may we say’ speech, and Bob Hawke’s, ‘no child will live in poverty by 1990’ speeches, I was prepared for an underwhelming speech of overstatement.

Expressing this unimaginable loss and tragedy for all Australians, Gillard has realised the importance of the reigns of deputy prime minister, if not leader, and done what few speakers could have executed today, as she addressed the nation.

While her delivery faltered, we listeners faltered many times more, as we were carried along by her emotional words of compassion and strength.

In this time of horrendous upheaval and tragedy, she has shown leadership, direction and outlined a hope for Victoria’s salvation and our nation’s future. The nation will aid the fallen, the stricken and comfort the bereaved.

Julia Gillard can take no small part in that huge achievement.