A mother killed in a house fire allegedly lit by her husband volunteered for a domestic violence charity.
Queensland mother-of-two Louise Susannah Hunt was allegedly murdered by Cameron Robert Hunt, 45, at their Geham home in a rural community north of Toowoomba, just before 3am on Tuesday.
Authorities discovered a body inside the charred home and while police are yet to make a formal identification with forensic testing is still underway, the remains are believed to be that of the 42-year-old wife and mother.
Two children at home at the time managed to escape unharmed.
Hunt has been charged with domestic violence murder and arson.
His wife Louise was a passionate supporter of Protea Place, a Toowoomba charity that helps vulnerable women.
It’s where she struck up a close bond with charity chief executive Amanda Dalton, who fought back tears as she paid tribute to her late friend.
‘Louise was the epitome of the most amazing and beautiful woman,’ she told Seven News.
Queensland mother-of-two Louise Hunt was allegedly murdered by her husband Cameron Hunt (pictured together) in a house fire on Tuesday
Authorities discovered a body inside the charred home and while police are yet to make a formal identification, the remains are believed to be that of the 42-year-old wife and mother
‘When it’s someone you know personally, it just knocks the absolute wind out of you on an even deeper level.’
Despite being surrounded by the horrors of domestic violence every day, Ms Dalton said having an alleged victim in her inner circle added ‘a whole new layer of grief’.
‘She absolutely lived for her children and her family,’ Ms Dalton told the Courier Mail.
‘They were her everything and will always be her everything. Our hearts are just broken for her children and her family.’
She said that Ms Hunt will be remembered as a kind-natured woman with the friendly and cheeky smile who always wanted to help people.
Ms Hunt regularly attended Protea Place events with her family and parents.
‘The (family) are at every event, they believe in supporting the work that we do and Louise was there, flying the banner at every opportunity,’ Ms Dalton said.
‘May is Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month and we have a candlelight vigil … Lou would have been there, supporting others and now here we are.’
Protea Place CEO Amanda Dalton said Louise Hunt (pictured) ‘absolutely lived for her kids’
The fire ripped through the Geham home early Tuesday morning
Ms Dalton vowed to ensure her friend’s death won’t be in vain.
‘We don’t want her just lost as another statistic or another name on a chair,’ she said.
Police said there was no previous reported domestic violence history between the couple. Nor was there an active domestic violence order in place.
Neighbours were woken by flashing blue and red lights and the smell of smoke early Tuesday morning.
One family, who didn’t want to be named, were shocked and devastated when they learned of Ms Hunt’s death
They told AAP that the Hunts as a ‘lovely family’, who mostly kept to themselves, but added that they ‘could be a lot of fun.’
The neighbours added Ms Hunt was kind, caring and a hard-working mum while her husband always checked in on those around him.
‘We never saw it coming — it rattles you,’ they said.
‘What should we have done as a community to see the signs?’
Another neighbour added: ‘We’re still coming to terms with it – it’s so close to home.
Others took to social media to mourn the loss of the beloved mother, led by Ms Hunt’s sister.
Ms Hunt (pictured with her husband) regularly attended Protea Place events with her family and parents
Two children were home at the time of the blaze but are safe and well
‘Loved beyond measure forever and always, fly high my beautiful sister, I love you so much,’ Savannah Griffiths wrote.
Toowoomba Mayor Geoff McDonald said that the community was heartbroken by the ‘tragic and senseless’ loss.
‘Our deepest condolences go out to all who are grieving,’ he posted on Facebook.
‘No one should ever have their life taken by violence.’
‘May the memory of Louise be a light in the darkness.’
Ms Hunt’s colleagues also paid tribute to the marketing specialist, who worked for vehicle accessory company Tuff Australia.
‘The impact on the Tuff family has been enormous and incomprehensible,’ the company said.
‘We are together grieving the loss of a work colleague, friend and an exceptional human being.’
Cameron Hunt (pictured) will remain in custody after his case was adjourned for three months
On their website, Tuff Australia described Louise as someone who embraced life.
‘Louise’s adventurous spirit was evident from a young age.
‘Growing up in Zimbabwe, she had encounters that not many can boast about, including being chased by an elephant and a warthog.’
‘As for her dream holiday destination, Louise’s ideal retreat involved a beach and cocktails.
‘Any place that combines the soothing sound of waves with the clink of glasses was her idea of the perfect getaway.’
There was no previous reported domestic violence history between the couple (pictured)
Hunt’s matter was briefly mentioned at Toowoomba Magistrates Court on Wednesday, where he was excused from appearing.
The case has been adjourned for three months for police to prepare a brief of evidence.
Hunt was remanded in custody and will appear in court on July 16.
If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault, domestic or family violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au.
