‘MUCH LOVED AND ADMIRED’
Tributes pour in for popular Saint Stephen’s College student who died suddenly at the weekend.
COUNSELLORS from several northern Gold Coast schools are helping Saint Stephen’s College students and teachers as they mourn the death of a popular Year 12 student.
Brittany Hills’ body was found near a bridge at Paradise Point in the early hours of Sunday.
Circumstances surrounding the 17-year-old’s death have not been revealed, but are not believed to be suspicious.
Brittany was appointed as a vice-captain at her Coomera school this year and was wellknown in the local community.
Principal Jamie Dorrington said her death had shocked everyone.
“The Saint Stephen’s College community is deeply saddened by the loss of one of our lovely students,” he said.
“Brittany was a wonderful young lady who had been appointed as one of our vicecaptains.
“She was a much loved and admired young lady ... She was generous, enthusiastic and always concerned for the wellbeing of others.
“The school has organised counselling for students, staff and parents and has begun the long process of healing.
“I am very grateful for the care and assistance provided by other schools, with many providing us with counsellors to assist our counsellor and pastoral care team.”
Brittany was well-known in the Runaway Bay and Paradise Point communities, particularly at Cafe on Bayview, where she worked part time.
A Facebook post on the business page paid tribute to the young staff member, who was “much beloved”.
“It is with a heavy heart that I must share some very sad news with our cafe family,” the post read.
“One of our very much beloved juniors Brittany Hills passed away on Sunday.
“We remember her beautiful smile and how much joy she brought to our lives. She was like a daughter to us and a sister to everyone else at the cafe.
“Serge, the staff and I extend our love and prayers to her family and friends. Especially her mum and her sister. Brittany will be missed more than I can express.”
In a letter to Saint Stephen’s parents, Mr Dorrington encouraged students, staff and caregivers to take the opportunity to “debrief with a professional”.
Police are preparing a report for the coroner and funeral arrangements are underway.
WE REMEMBER HER BEAUTIFUL SMILE AND HOW MUCH JOY SHE BROUGHT TO OUR LIVES CAFE ON BAYVIEW TRIBUTE
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