Over 300 mourners farewell Zoe Buttigieg in Wangaratta

A RAINBOW of multicoloured balloons was released into the skies above Wangaratta yesterday in memory of “angel’’ Zoe Buttigieg.

Zoe, 11 years old. Possibly the Wangaratta murder victim. Possibly named Zoe Saunders (although she may have her dad's surname, so not sure of full name). Mum is Janelle Saunders. also named Zoe Buttigieg

A RAINBOW of multicoloured balloons was released into the skies above Wangaratta yesterday in memory of “angel” Zoe Buttigieg.

More than 300 people turned out for the funeral, held a fortnight after the 11-year-old was found in her Inchbold St home.

Her mother, Janelle Saunders wore bright yellow and most of the congregation wore bright coloured clothes in honour of the “bubbly” and “beautiful” 11-year-old.

Tears flowed as the crowd was told of Zoe’s love for her dog Jax, making pancakes and her dreams of being a pop singer on the reality television show The X Factor.

A 29-year-old man from Mildura has been charged with Zoe’s rape and murder.

He will be remanded until February next year.

[e-mail]