Ballarat community mourns sudden death of Bridie Cocks

A “bubbly” girl with a “beautiful smile” and “sweet nature” is being remembered after she died in hospital, a week after a tragic incident.

The Ballarat community is mourning the sudden loss of another young life.

Teenager Bridie Cocks died at the weekend.

The “beautiful girl” had been in intensive care at the Royal Children’s Hospital for over a week following a “tragic accident”.

Her father, Richard Cocks, announced the news with “deep sorrow and broken hearts” on Sunday.

Bridie Cocks, from Ballarat, has tragically died by suicide. Picture: Facebook.

“Bridie, our angel sent from heaven, has spread her angel wings and gone to heaven,” he posted.

“She has left us with so many wonderful memories. We just wish she had been able to stay to make so many more.

“We are all going to miss her so very much.”

Hundreds of tributes have been pouring in for the teenager online, with people remembering her as a “bubbly” girl with a “beautiful smile” and “sweet nature”.

Nick Watts, of Ballarat, died by suicide in August.

Her passing comes as the community continues to grieve Nick Watts, who died by suicide on August 30.

Tragically, Nick — understood to have been Bridie’s best friend — would have turned 17 on October 15.

In a tribute posted online, Bridie had written there was “no easy way to cope with losing your best friend”.

“For so long it was just you and me just keeping each other happy.

“It was us against everyone else. Even though you’re gone I’m never going to forget your beautiful face. I’m going to try my hardest at making you proud.”

News of Nick’s death spread as the Ballarat community learned of another young life lost — Tom Ellis, 26, took his life on September 1, just weeks after 17-year-old Rohan Cosgriff.

It came on the back of the sudden death of much-loved Ballarat High School physical education teacher James Petrie earlier in the year.

If you or someone you know needs help, call Lifeline on 13 11 14. Help is also available via Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636, Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800 and Ballarat Headspace on 5304 4777.