Optimism in hunt for killer

THE family of Toyah Cordingley is not giving up the search for her killer as the investigation reaches the eightweek mark.

The 24-year-old’s mother, Vanessa Gardiner has vowed to never give up hope that the person responsible will be brought to justice.

“Eight weeks (on Sunday) the time has gone so fast but I will never give up for our precious daughter Toyah,” she said. “Justice will be done. “My heart aches every single minute of every single day.”

Ms Cordingley was reported missing about 10.50pm on October 21, before her body was found by her father Troy Cordingley the following morning about 60km north of Cairns.

Detectives immediately launched an investigation.

In a statement released yesterday, Mr Cordingley said finding his daughter’s body “is something a father should never have to suffer”.

“Toyah is my only child,” he said. “Finding her body has burnt an indelible image in my mind.

“I feel lost and empty inside but will always have the wonderful memories of those 24 years … 24 years, she should have had so many more.

“I want to thank the police, the SES and the community as a whole for working hard to find who committed this horrific act against an innocent young woman.”

Through the unimaginable pain, Mr Cordingley said he had many memories of his daughter that he would cherish forever.

“I have other images permanently etched in my mind, Toyah used to spend a week with her mother and a week with Mary and I as she grew up,” he said.

“I remember our backyard full of laughing happy kids. I remember wonderful birthday parties and Christmases (sic).

“She always said how lucky she was to have two mums and two dads.

“Toyah grew into a beautiful, caring young woman. We are all so proud of that.

“Toyah and I shared a love that only a father and daughter can understand.”

The tragic crime has prompted one of the biggest community outpourings of support, with the launch of awareness bumper stickers and signs, and several community events all designed to raise awareness and pay tribute to Ms Cordingley.

Tributes for Ms Cordingley continue to came from friends, family and perfect strangers.

editorial@cairnspost.com.au facebook.com/TheCairnsPost www.cairnspost.com.au twitter.com/TheCairnsPost