MOURNERS SPEAK ABOUT AUSTRALIAN NATIONALS AND RESIDENTS LOST ON FLIGHT MH17:

“We’re getting used to it, I guess.” – George Burrows, whose son and daughter-in-law perished with Malaysia Airlines flight MH370, has now lost his step-granddaughter, Maree Rizk, in the MH17 crash.

“My friend and I watched the news on CNN as soon as I received the call.” – Mother of Malaysian-born Victorian resident Shaliza Dewa, who died with her husband Hans van den Hende and three children.

“Phil was a beautiful spirit in the midst. It will be like losing one of the closest members of your own family.” – Kincoppal-Rose Bay principal Hilary Johnston-Croke about NSW nun Philomene Tiernan.

“The extent of our loss is hard to comprehend or express.” – International AIDS Society president Francoise Barre-Sinoussi confirmed at least six Melbourne-bound conference delegates perished in the flight.

“Frankie was a dear friend – warm, generous and kind.” – Toorak College principal Helen Carmody on the death of Victorian teacher Frankie Davison along with her husband Liam Davison.

“I said, ‘Jeez, really?’ and he said, ‘Yes, I only bought a one-way ticket’, but he was joking.” – Glenn Horder’s brother, MH17 passenger Howard Horder, joked about the flight going down.

“They are a beautiful couple, a lovely family,” – Jeanette Seignior about Victoria’s Gerry and Mary Menke.

“Nick who loved his family … was with his three grandchildren right until the end.” – Matt Jones about his uncle Nick Norris, who perished with his three grandchildren.