The father of knife attack victim Tom Jackson, who is clinging to life in a far north Queensland hospital, has spoken of his immense pride in his son.
Tom Jackson, 30, suffered multiple wounds on Tuesday at a hostel at Home Hills, about 100km south of Townsville, while trying to protect fellow Brit Mia Ayliffe-Chung who was stabbed to death.
"There are many and varied reasons why we are, and always will be, immensely proud of Tom. His actions in response to this horrific attack only add to that sense of pride," Les Jackson said in a statement released on Sunday by Townsville Hospital.
Mr Jackson, who has travelled from the UK to be at his son's hospital bedside, said he'd received many offers of support and friendship by the Townsville community.
"Please don't think I am unappreciative of these kind offers if they appear to be silently ignored. They have not been but I think you will understand that our sole focus at the moment is entirely on Tom's condition," he said.
"We are in awe of the medical and support staff at the Townsville Hospital who are providing the greatest care Tom could hope to receive and keeping me informed of his ongoing treatment every step of the way..
"Finally, and most importantly, our hearts go out to Mia and her family and friends at this dreadful time."
Tom Jackson remains a critical condition, a hospital spokesman said on Sunday.
Frenchman Smail Ayad, who was staying at the hostel, is accused of murdering Ayliffe-Chung and stabbing Tom Jackson as well as killing a dog and injuring a dozen police after his arrest.
Police deemed him too aggressive to appear in Townsville Magistrates Court on Friday where his case was adjourned until October 28.
