This was published 3 years ago
Kate, Matt and Miles: Final farewell for ‘truly great human beings’
By Lydia Lynch
The beloved family dogs of a Brisbane couple watched on as the family was laid to rest at a private funeral on Monday.
Kate Leadbetter, 31, and Matt Field, 37, and their unborn son Miles were killed while crossing an intersection in Alexandra Hills, north of Brisbane, with their dogs on Australia Day.
Family, friends and pets Frankie and Django watch on during the service on Monday.
A teenage boy is accused of running a red light in a stolen 4WD, crashing into a tow truck then rolling the car and ploughing into the couple.
The 17-year-old has been charged with two counts of murder, with a third charge being considered over Miles’ death.
Heartbroken family and friends gathered for a final farewell at Iona College in Lindum, in Brisbane’s east, on Monday.
Mourners lined the street as the hearse was given a police escort on the way to the service.
The two dogs, Frankie and Django, which survived the tragedy, watched on.
While out walking their dogs on Australia Day, parents-to-be Kate Leadbetter and Matt Field died when they were struck by an allegedly stolen car driven by a teenage male.
The soon-to-be parents were remembered by their family as “truly great human beings, talented and funny, and such good company”.
Statement from the family
“Today, alongside our friends and family, we farewelled Matt, Kate and baby Miles, during a private ceremony.
“Our families would like to thank everyone who joined us to say goodbye and extend our sincerest thanks to the wider community for the support and compassion it has shown us.
“To the first responders and police who looked after Matt, Kate and Miles, and who have supported our families throughout this difficult time, words can not express the depth of our gratitude for the way you have cared for each and every one of us. We are incredibly grateful for everything you have done.
The couple and their unborn son were laid to rest in Brisbane on Monday.
“We also would like to thank the staff at Iona College who went to great lengths to help us in farewelling Matt, Kate and Miles today. It was their wonderful assistance which allowed us to remain COVID complaint today through the use of their school halls and live-streaming capacity to ensure we met all guidelines.
“Our families need time together to grieve. Our hearts go out to everyone missing them today, and we thank you for honouring their memories with us.”