Arabic version: دونالد تودّع ليلى جيفري البالغة 13 عاماً

According to ABC News, hundreds of people gathered in Donald, in western Victoria, on Friday afternoon to farewell 13-year-old Layla Jeffery. Family, friends and community members filled the Donald Memorial Hall for a service held after her remains were found in nearby bushland on July 9.

Layla had been reported missing from Donald, near Horsham, on July 5. A 16-year-old boy was arrested and charged with murder, and is due to face court next month. The alleged murder has deeply affected the small town, where police held a public meeting last week to address community fears.

Mourners wore pink Hello Kitty clothing or black hoodies, reflecting Layla’s favourite clothes. Pink balloons were carried by family and friends. In a eulogy, her aunt, Kaitlyn Cheyne, said Layla loved fashion, movies, music, singing and taking photos, and that the music played during the service came from her playlists.

Layla’s father, Aaron Jeffery, read a poem encouraging people to cherish her memory, smile, love and go on. Buloke Shire Council Mayor Graeme Milne said the service was “a real Layla service” and provided an opportunity for people to grieve. Donald’s grain silos were lit pink the previous night in tribute, while ideas including murals and memorial bench seats have been discussed.