She is not what you expect

Did you watch “Unbroken: The Kathleen Folbigg Story” on Channel 7 last night?

It is hard to fathom what it was like for Kath to spend 20 years locked in prison, grieving for her children, often tainted and living in fear.

Natalie Barr spent days with Kath during the interview and said in the lead up to it screening: “She didn’t seem broken after two decades in jail. She appeared strong, articulate, determined, thoughtful and happy.

“…She was open to speak to and spend time with. I think I expected her to be bitter.

“I kept trying to put myself in her position and think about how I’d be, but of course none of us ever will be.”

Natalie sums Kath up perfectly. I am awed by her resilience and positive spirit.

I still haven’t fully processed that she is finally free. It feels surreal to talk to her and give her a hug outside visiting hours at a prison.

I am also awed by everything our mutual high school friend Tracy Chapman achieved in the fight for her release. She devoted so many years to the battle and it is far from over.

While Kath has been given an unconditional pardon, she has not been exonerated.

Former NSW chief justice Tom Bathurst, who headed the inquiry into Kath’s convictions, hasn’t released his report yet.

As Tracy points out: “In the eyes of the law Kath’s still a convicted child killer, murdering mother, and still carries the convictions to prove it. She has only been pardoned, and the convictions still stand. Kath can’t get a loan, she’s on a child protection register, and cannot intentionally associate with children. Kath also can’t get a job as she has criminal convictions against her name.”

Godspeed my friends in the difficult months ahead. You are an inspiration.