Cassandra McMahon, Tools of the Trade 1 (PEOPLE & PORTRAIT 2024)

As a post-mortem assistant, Hayley Moore’s’ practice revolves around revealing the intricate truths hidden within the departed. At the Townsville Mortuary, she wields a seemingly abrasive instrument, the shears, a gateway to the chest cavity. Despite their imposing nature, this tool is a nuanced necessity for post-mortems. In her hands, they become an extension of empathy, not brute force. Precision is paramount; her smooth operation seeks answers, unravelling the mystery behind a loved one's demise. Through this delicate process, Hayley offers solace to grieving families, granting insight into the reasons for their loss.

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