Former Studio 10 host Sarah Harris has paid tribute to Jesse Baird, who was allegedly murdered by his ex-boyfriend.
During the February 25 broadcast, Sarah admitted it had been a “very hard week” for those who worked with him at the network, revealing it was “hard to talk about Jesse in the past tense”.
“He was more than just a colleague, he was our friend … a little brother,” she said through tears.
Describing him as an “absolute star”, Sarah added he was “quick on his feet whether it was water skiing or feeding a croc”.
“[He was] One of those kids who had a big smile, big talent and an even bigger heart.”
According to The Project host, Jesse had a huge job lined up in 2024 while also saying that Jesse felt boyfriend Luke Davies was “The One”.
“He was in love,” she said, adding that his family also needed to know he “spoke about them often and with so much love.”
“We are all so sorry.”
Elsewhere, Hamish Macdonald shared a heartfelt tribute while also speaking about how this year’s Mardi Gras will be tinged with sadness.
Network 10 releases a statement in regards to Jesse Baird
Earlier on February 25, a spokesperson released a statement on behalf of Jesse’s Studio 10 colleagues.
“Jesse was so much more than a colleague. He was a cherished friend who brightened every day with his positivity, cheeky winks and brilliant smile,” the statement read.
“He could handle anything from croc feeding to speeding down a river on water skis on live TV – anything to keep the audience entertained.
“Through his roving reporter role, he travelled the country and met hundreds of people from all walks of life. They were all without a doubt left a little brighter having been touched by his presence.
“As his workmates and friends, we are completely shattered. Nothing was ever too much trouble. He worked so hard to make his dreams come true. He was up for anything and the life of the party always. It is quite simply impossible to overstate how much we adored him.
“Our hearts ache for his family, who he loved so much and spoke of often. We’re also thinking of Luke’s family and what could have been for both of them.
“Jessie & Luke, forever adored. Forever young and beautiful. Inside and out.”
Jesse’s cousin pays tribute
Jesse’s cousin Austin took to Instagram with a video to pay tribute to his loved one, the first to break their silence from his family.
“Jesse, my first ever best friend, I am beyond devastated. I still can’t believe it. Most of my favourite memories in life were me, Luke, Brendan and you riding motorbikes, skiing, boating and camping,” he said.
“I’ll never forget our chats, all the times we would hang out on the weekends and go away with family and friends,” he continued. “I told you things I’d never tell anyone. I trusted you, I’ve laughed and cried in front of you!
“You were one in a million, you cared about everyone and left such an impact on every person you met! I’ll love and remember you forever mate. It is an honour to be your cousin. Till we meet again.”
Update on Jesse Baird and Luke Davies – Monday, February 26
At the time of publication, police are continuing to search for Jesse and Luke’s bodies after they were allegedly killed by former police officer Beau Lamarre-Condon.
According to News.com.au, Police have now established a crime scene at Hazelton Rd at Bungonia, in the state’s Southern Tablelands, with divers understood to be searching two dams on private property.
Lamarre-Condon has been charged with two counts of murder after police allegedly located a projectile linked to a NSW Police-issued Glock firearm.
More as we get it…
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