Airlie Montgomery’s parents reveal wish to erect memorial sensory playground in Nowra

The grief-stricken parents of Airlie Montgomery – a six-year-old girl who died in a tragic case of misadventure on the South Coast – have revealed their wish to celebrate the life of their little girl, while giving back to their “amazing” community.

Corey and Katie Montgomery with their three kids Arya, Arlie (middle of pic) and Lawson. Picture: Facebook

The grief-stricken parents of Airlie Montgomery – a six-year-old girl who died in a tragic case of misadventure on the South Coast – have revealed their wish to celebrate the life of their little girl, while giving back to their “amazing” community.

Corey and Katie Montgomery said they wished to construct a sensory playground at Drexel Park, North Nowra, in honour of their little girl, Airlie, who was non-verbal autistic and died on March 16 after falling to her death at a lookout.

The Montgomery family said it would be a way to remember their daughter, while giving other disabled children in the region a place to play.

The idea was put forth to family friend, Kiama MP Gareth Ward, who told this publication the grieving duo were still “distraught” over Airlie’s death.

“They are still distraught, but they want to give back to the community,” he said.

Airlie Montgomery was only six-years-old when she tragically died. Picture: Facebook

“I think it’s a beautiful idea.”

The Montgomerys’ pitch comes after Airlie’s father spoke of his heart break following the devastating series of events at The Grotto, North Nowra on March 16.

Floral tributes have been left for little Airlie at The Grotto. Picture: Richard Dobson

NSW Police said Airlie went for a walk from her home before tragically falling from the popular Shoalhaven River lookout at The Grotto.

They said her death was not being treated as suspicious, but as a tragic case of misadventure.

“She had no sense of danger, no sense of what the world was all about,” Mr Montgomery said.

“She lived in her own little world.”

Airlie tragically fell from The Grotto in North Nowra on March 16. Picture: Richard Dobson

A spokeswoman for NSW Premier Chris Minns’ office said any memorial proposal put forth by Shoalhaven Council would be considered by the state government.

Mr Minns himself told this publication his heart was with the family during this terrible time.

“The death of little Airlie is a profound tragedy,” he told this publication on Tuesday.

“I cannot imagine what her loved ones are going through at this time, but my thoughts are with them, and I genuinely hope they are able to find comfort.”

Shoalhaven Mayor Patrica White said the playground proposal was being treated seriously by council, saying a price tag of $100,000 was discussed.

Mr Ward called on the state government to fork out $80,000 to help fund the memorial playground.

Meanwhile, state South Coast MP, Liza Butler and federal Gilmore MP, Fiona Phillips, each said they supported the playground’s construction.

Mr Montgomery said he and his wife wanted to give back to the community who came out in droves to help find their little girl.

“The way the community came together for us was just so amazing,” he said.

“When things settle down, I want to give back.”

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Originally published as Airlie Montgomery’s parents reveal wish to erect memorial sensory playground in Nowra