A sea of vibrant colours flooded the Calyx at Sydney’s Botanic Gardens as hundreds gathered to celebrate the life of Jade Young, the talented architect from Bellevue Hill, who was killed in the Bondi Junction massacre.
The 47-year-old mother of two was among the six innocent victims senselessly struck down during the horrific stabbing rampage at Westfield Bondi Beach on the 13th of April 2024.
A Mother’s Heartfelt Plea
Mourners adorned in bright dresses and coloured shirts fulfilled Jade’s wishes, paying a colourful tribute to the warmth and joy she brought to those around her. Remembered as a “dearly loved and irreplaceable wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt and beloved friend to many,” Jade’s kindness and gentle spirit were lauded by all who knew her.
In a powerful eulogy, Jade’s mother, Elizabeth Young, issued a passionate call for lasting change. The heartbroken grandmother, who now co-parents Jade’s two young daughters, expressed anger over fleeting news cycles and shallow political rhetoric after such tragedies.
“I am heart fractured and angry; I am exhausted and scared of the future,” she also wrote. “I want more than five minutes of disingenuous, anodyne words from politicians, I want more than the three days of news coverage, before something else made the headlines.”
Elizabeth vowed to advocate fiercely to address gaps in mental healthcare and ensure her granddaughters grow up in a safer, more secure world.
“On a personal level, I want Jade’s girls to grow up believing there is security, goodness and love in the world.
“But also, on another level, I want politicians, both federal and state, to address the gaps in mental healthcare to make it a safer world, for our girls and all Australians.”
Community Embraces Family
Jade’s 12-year tenure at the award-winning firm Georgina Wilson Associates left an indelible mark on Sydney’s architectural landscape. Her colleagues remembered her as “a beautiful, kind and warm soul” who was considered family. Among the projects bearing her influence are private residences across Sydney’s elite eastern suburbs.
In the depths of unimaginable grief, the Young family has been buoyed by a deeply committed network of loved ones. The Bronte Surf Club, where Jade was an active member, has “held them close” by offering immense support. A GoFundMe campaign has raised over $320,000 to assist Jade’s husband, Noel McLaughlan, as he navigates life as a single father.
“Thank you again for all the support for the McLaughlan/Young families. I urge you to please keep sharing this gofundme. Your love and support is incredibly appreciated!” Nicole Roma, the organiser of the fundraising page, wrote on the 8th of May 2024.
Published 12-May-2024
