Arabic version: عائلة تطلق مؤسسة للحدائق الآمنة حسياً في ذكرى ابنتهم

The Montgomery family is establishing a charity to create sensory-safe playgrounds following the tragic death of their daughter, Airlie, who passed away a year ago after falling from The Grotto lookout near their home. According to ABC News, the Airlie Fairy Foundation aims to fundraise for upgrades to local parks, making them more accessible for children with autism.

Airlie Montgomery, affectionately known as “Airlie Fairy,” was a six-year-old non-verbal child with autism spectrum disorder. She went missing from her backyard on March 16, 2025, and was later found at the bottom of an 800-metre-high lookout. Her father, Corey Montgomery, expressed the ongoing pain of losing his daughter, stating that it feels like just a week has passed since the tragedy.

As part of their mission, the Montgomery family plans to refurbish a small local park where Airlie used to play, incorporating sensory equipment and features that promote accessibility and security. Corey Montgomery highlighted the importance of creating spaces that cater to children like Airlie, who experienced the world in unique ways but faced challenges in understanding danger.

Shoalhaven Mayor Patricia White has expressed her support for the foundation’s efforts and is collaborating with the family on the park’s design, which will also benefit students from a nearby special school. The first project will be located close to Havenlee School, enhancing the existing sensory park in Mollymook.

On the anniversary of Airlie’s passing, the Montgomery family gathered with community members at The Grotto to commemorate her life. They installed a fairy garden in her memory, celebrating her love for fairies and the color purple. Corey Montgomery described the lookout as a place of reflection, where he feels connected to his daughter and remains committed to honoring her legacy.