Sister’s sad loss sparks Chloe’s Law campaign to tackle bullying

POA: LESS than a year after going through the hardest time of her life, Cassie Whitehill still manages to muster a smile.

Pride of Oz: Community Spirit - Cassie Whitehill for her anti-bullying efforts and volunteer work with girl guides.

LESS than a year after going through the hardest time of her life, Cassie Whitehill still manages to muster a smile.

Cassie, 31, and her family were devastated when her sister Chloe Fergusson, 15, took her life as a result of bullying.

“It’s still pretty raw,” the Hobart mother said yesterday.

“It’s been just under 11 months but we’re getting through it as best we can.”

Soon after Chloe’s death, her sister embarked on a campaign for nationwide anti-bullying laws, starting with the Chloe’s Law Facebook page.

The page has attracted more than 289,000 likes and Cassie established what would become the largest e-petition to be tabled in Tasmania’s House of Assembly, containing almost 5000 signatures.

“My motivation and strength comes from Chloe and knowing that I can’t bring her back but I can try really hard to make sure it doesn’t happen to another family,” she said.

Chloe’s Law is now a ­registered not-for-profit ­organisation.

“It’s turned into more than law reform now,” Cassie said.

“It’s about spreading awareness and education, and teaching people to think before they speak.”

She has been nominated in the Pride of Australia Medal’s community spirit category.

To nominate someone for a Pride of Australia Medal, visit www.themercury.com.au/prideofaustralia

Nominations close at 5pm tomorrow.

Lifeline offers 24-hour support on 131 114.