Boxing Day stormwater victim Tanya Frankcom-Hehir’s funeral announced
The family of one of two women who drowned in the Mary River following a sudden stormwater surge say the “beautiful” community-minded mum will “never be forgotten” as they prepare for her funeral. DETAILS.
Gympie
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The family of Tanya Frankcom-Hehir has remembered the 46-year-old as “the most amazing mother and daughter” following her shock death on Boxing Day in the Mary River at Gympie.
Ms Frankcom-Hehir, along with fellow keen hiker, 40-year-old mother Helen Bradford, drowned when a severe storm cell crossed the region about 2.30pm while they were exploring a stormwater drain which ran into the river from under the city.
A third woman, 46-year-old Kerry-Ann Nugent, was the sole survivor after the trio were washed back into the river by a surge of stormwater.
Ms Nugent raised the alarm, sparking a desperate search for her friends which ended in tragedy.
On Thursday, the family of Ms Frankcom-Hehir paid tribute to her ahead of her upcoming funeral.
“She was the most amazing mother and daughter,” her father Ralph Frankcom said in a statement.
“Beautiful sister to her brother.
“Always jovial, friendly, laughing, always put her hand up to help, good organiser, will never be forgotten.”
Community tributes to Ms Frankcom-Hehir also continue to grow on the Gympie Funerals website where her service is listed.
“Tanya was a beautiful soul, her bubbly happy nature was infectious,” a post from Michelle and Kevin Liddicoat read
“Such a caring fun-loving adventurous lady,” Debra (no surname provided) wrote.
“We will remember Tanya’s beautiful smile, zest for adventure, the profound love and dedication to her children and the many conversations over a hot chocolate / coffee that covered every topic,” Angela and Kaine Ernst wrote.
“We hope that there is comfort and strength drawn from the memories of the incredible life that Tanya lived.”
The tributes join an enormous outpouring of grief and support on social media where hundreds of thoughts, memories and condolences were posted following the tragedy.
In the days following the tragedy Ms Nugent shared on her own Facebook page an image of the three women, who shared a passion for outdoor adventure, running and hiking.
The post drew hundreds of comments in support.
Ms Frankcom-Hehir’s funeral will be held at Gympie Funeral Home Chapel on Wednesday, January 10, at 10am.
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