Stephanie McFarlane: Tragedy as ‘bubbly’ 28yo dies

The mother of a Gold Coast bar worker has shared her heartbreak after her ‘bubbly’ daughter died aged 28.

The mother of a Gold Coast bar worker who died aged 28 has shared her heartbreak at losing her “bubbly” daughter.

Stephanie McFarlane died on July 11, the anniversary of her father’s death who tragically died of cancer a year ago.

Ms McFarlane had lived in Gold Coast for ten years and was well-known by locals who frequented The Chevron Island Tavern where she worked.

Her mother Sandra has spoken out about her death and said she wants speculation about how Stephanie died to stop.

Stephanie (Steph) McFarlane died on July 11.

A mural has been painted for Ms McFarlane.

“It was to the day (of her dad’s death) - that’s all I will say (about Steph’s death),” she told the Gold Coast Bulletin.

“I don’t want anymore rumours or speculation (about how she died),” she said.

“Stop the gossip. She is gone and we can’t bring her back. We can’t blame ourselves.

“Leave her in peace.”

Sandra said Stephanie had “the biggest hearted person you would ever meet” and “would always put everyone else before herself”.

“She kept her heart true and that’s why people loved her,” she said.

Chevron Island residents have been left reeling at the news of Stephanie’s death.

Sandra McFarlane (right) shared the “shattering news” that her then 28-year-old daughter Stephanie McFarlane (left) passed away on July 11. Photo: Sandra McFarlane

One of her friend’s, Robert Wraight, has painted a mural for her above Chevron Island’s Arlo’s Pizzeria.

Local Melissa Collard said she was “shocked and saddened” when she heard the news.

“I will always remember her smiles and bubbliness when she would come into the store,” she said.

While resident Cameron Andrews said: “I feel honoured to have known her and like all of us that knew this precious soul are heart broken.

“We were richer for your life and I will always remember you with a big smile and that wonderful warm loving hug you gave.”

Stephanie moved from Geelong to Gold Coast when she was just 19 and was a talented musician and cricketer.

She was also a karate black belt.

Sandra is holding a “celebration of life” memorial for her daughter on August 11.

The ceremony will be held at The Shell Club on Purnell Street from 1pm.