Dear Russ
I am very sorry to hear of your loss and also your job situation

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Airlines do have bereavement or compassionate travel fares for these types of circumstances. Generally you would just need to call and speak with them to get something sorted out. EDIT: Oops, I see someone has already mentioned this. Sorry to hear you cant get there in time

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I wish you all the best and do hope to meet you at one of our Aussie Do's in the near future, when you feel up to it.
Best wishes,
DG.