Mum responds to damaging rumours as investigation into Pheobe Bishop’s death continues

Pheobe Bishop’s mum has shared an emotional message on her business page addressing damaging rumours about her daughter’s death.

Missing Bundaberg teenager Pheobe Bishop with her mother Kylie Johnson. Picture: Facebook

The mother of Pheobe Bishop has shared an emotional message on her business’s Facebook page amid hurtful rumours circulating online.

Kylie Johnson, owner and director of Smiley’s Support Services, spoke about the impact of recent speculation within her industry and reassured clients that her business remains open despite a waitlist in some areas.

A now-deleted post from another Facebook user, shared publicly to a community forum created for Pheobe Bishop’s return, falsely accused Ms Johnson of “using” Pheobe and claimed she needed carers only as a way to earn extra money.

The family did not want to comment on this post directly.

Pheobe, 17, was reported missing in May 2025 and her remains were believed to have been found three weeks later.

Two people she had been living with in a rented Gin Gin home, James Wood and Tanika Bromley, have since been charged with her murder.

Her death has drawn widespread media attention and scrutiny over the systems designed to protect vulnerable NDIS participants.

Kylie Johnson and missing girl (daughter) Pheobe Bishop. Picture Facebook

In the wake of the case, Ms Johnson has been a vocal advocate for transparency, but has also found herself the target of online criticism, something she addressed head-on in her post.
“Imagine people from your own industry using this tragedy to benefit themselves?” she wrote.

“After 23 years of working between the disability and aged care sector I’m actually pretty disappointed.”
Ms Johnson said she began her career as a carer and cleaner, working in dementia-specific units and aged care homes before establishing her own NDIS-registered support business.

“My company was established at the same time our NDIS Registration was applied for. We were approved for all levels of support that we provide,” she said.

“Our last Audit in June 2024 was completed as per the NDIS Guidelines... with beautiful feedback.”

Addressing rumours that her business was closing, Ms Johnson confirmed Smiley’s Support Services remained operational despite a waitlist in some areas.

“We’d like to assure you all that Smiley’s has NO intention of closing,” she wrote.

“Even if we were considering this, our clients would be contacted immediately.”

Pheobe Bishop’s mother, Kylie Johnson, has taken to social media every day, pleading for anyone with information to contact police.

She thanked the community for their continued support and made special mention of Wade from Smithie’s Karaoke and DJ Hire, who volunteered his time to help with the recent candlelight vigils held in Pheobe’s memory.

“Phee would have loved this because besides Wade lives with his own super powers… he runs numerous business ventures and WOW, he’s kicking goals.”

Ms Johnson ended her message with a tribute to her daughter’s strength.

“Your disability only defines you if you allow it to, and Phee never let hers define her.”

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Originally published as Mum responds to damaging rumours as investigation into Pheobe Bishop’s death continues