Phillip Hughes' Funeral: A Nation Gets Ready to Say Final Farewell
Phillip Hughes' funeral will take place in his hometown of Macksville. While Qantas has scheduled two additional flights to a nearby airport, national television networks are expected to broadcast the ceremony for fans around the world.
Phillip Hughes' funeral will take place on December 3 (Wednesday) at his hometown of Macksville. Such is the outpouring of grief that national Australian carrier - Qantas - has scheduled two additional flights from Sydney for all who wish to pay their last respect. (1st Australia vs India Test postponed | Michael Clarke's emotional tribute)
Hughes, who died after being struck by a bouncer during a domestic Australian match, will be laid to rest at an event in Macksville High School where the 25-year-old was educated. According to a statement issued by Cricket Australia on Saturday, vision screens for guests would be placed as the school's hall to accommodate large crowd. The service will also be broadcast live by the Nine Network with provisions made for all other television networks. The giant screens at the Sydney Cricket Ground and Adelaide Oval will also broadcast the ceremony. (Hughes' death brings old foes India, Australia closer)
The statement also said that Qantas has scheduled two additional B737 services between Sydney and Coffs Harbour - a 45 minutes drive from Macksville. "The offers of assistance for Wednesday's service have been remarkable.," said CA Chief Executive James Sutherland. "While we know that people from all around the nation want to pay their respects to Phillip, there will only be limited capacity in Macksville, so the work of our broadcasters will help ensure people around the country can follow the service on TV, radio and online."
Cricket Australia has also urged well-wishers to respect the privacy of Hughes' family.