The friends of a local woman who sadly passed away on Sunday, August 15, have launched a fundraiser to help support her grieving family.
The body of 42-year-old Maree Smith was found in Woy Woy on Sunday following a series of reports from passers-by.
Emergency services attended Spike Milligan Bridge on Blackwall Rd at about 2:10pm on Sunday, with Maree found by a passer-by in mangroves about 250 metres south of the bridge in shallow waters near a bicycle.
A crime scene was established to be examined by specialist officers.
Fundraiser organiser and friend, Tina Navin, said the loss of her ‘dearest friend’ was a shock to all.
“Her passing was sudden and unexpected, and as you can imagine her husband Paul and young son Ryan as well as her family and friends are in shock,” she said on the GoFundMe page.
“Ryan is just six years old and in kindergarten, and Paul’s focus at this difficult time is to do whatever he can to help keep Ryan’s life as stable as possible after the loss of his mummy, the centre of his world.
“Maree was one of those people that reminded you what true friendship really is.
“She would drop everything to be there for you when you needed her, loyal, kind and generous.
“Maree would never forget a birthday or important event and no matter where you were in the world she would find a way to call or message you and she would always take the time to understand the real you, and loved you just the way you are.
“She will be missed greatly by everyone who knew her.
“Please help us to support Paul and Ryan as they grieve and learn how to live without the centre of their universe.”
The fundraiser was originally set at $10,000 but soon passed this mark and has now currently raised over $15,000.
Cristina thanked those who have ‘so generously’ donated so far.
“Let’s keep going, for Maree,” she said.
“Your generosity and kindness just goes to show how wonderful and loved Maree was.”
Officers from Brisbane Water Police District have commenced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the woman’s death and a brief will be prepared for the information of the coroner.
Police are appealing for anyone who was riding or walking along the cycleway and noticed the woman on a purple bike, or has dashcam vision, to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
To donate to the fundraiser, visit the GoFundMe website and visit the ‘Help Support Maree Smith’s family’ page.
Maisy Rae