Gold Coast school community mourns student’s tragic death

THE Saint Stephen’s College community is in mourning after a promising young student’s tragic death. Counselling is being offered to all affected.

Brittany Hills, 17, tragically died on the weekend.

COUNSELLORS from several northern Gold Coast schools have banded together to help Saint Stephen’s College mourn the death of a popular grade 12 student.

Brittany Hills’ body was found near a bridge at Paradise Point in the early hours of Sunday morning.

The circumstances surrounding the 17-year-old’s death are not known, but are not believed to be suspicious.

Brittany was chosen as vice-captain for her Upper Coomera school this year and was well-known in the local community.

Brittany Hills, a Saint Stephen’s College student, was tragically found dead on Sunday.

Principal Jamie Dorrington said the loss had been a shock to everyone.

“The Saint Stephen’s College community is deeply saddened by the loss of one of our lovely students,” he said.

“Brittany was a wonderful young lady, who had been appointed as one of our vice-captains.

“She was a much loved and admired young lady ... She was generous, enthusiastic and always concerned for the wellbeing of others.

“The school has organised counselling for students, staff and parents and have begun the long process of healing.

“I am very grateful for the care and assistance provided by other schools, with many providing us with counsellors to assist our counsellor and pastoral care team.”

Brittany was well-known in the Runaway Bay and Paradise Point communities, particularly at Cafe on Bayview, where she worked part-time.

A Facebook post on the business page paid tribute to the young staff member, who was “much beloved”.

“It is with a heavy heart that I must share some very sad news with our cafe family,” the post read.

“One of our very much beloved juniors Brittany Hills passed away on Sunday.

“We remember her beautiful smile and how much joy she brought to our lives.

“She was like a daughter to us and a sister to everyone else at the cafe.

“Serge, the staff and I extend our love and prayers to her family and friends. Especially her mum and her sister. Brittany will be missed more than I can express.”

In a letter to Saint Stephen’s parents Mr Dorrington encouraged students, staff and caregivers to take the opportunity to “debrief with a professional”.

He wrote that he knew many were putting on a “brave” face, and thanked Trinity Anglican College, Coomera Anglican College, All Saints Anglican College, AB Paterson and Assisi Catholic College for their assistance with counselling.

Police are preparing a report for the Coroner and funeral arrangements are underway.

If you, or someone you know, needs help please call Lifeline on 13 11 14.