The Sunshine Coast funeral was streamed across the world to reach those who had been a part of the school teacher’s life.
At Weipa, the Carpentaria Golf Club was packed with staff from Western Cape College, as well as members of the Weipa community who wanted to farewell their much-loved friend.
“We are very grateful to all friends and family for joining us in celebrating Emily’s life,” mum Denise said.
“Special love goes to Emily’s brother Michael and his wife Monique, who are joining us from their home in West Africa.”
She also paid tribute to Emily’s partner Ben and his friend Riley who were at the scene when the accident occurred.
“To all of Emily’s friends, too many to name, who helped her to live her best life, we thank you for the joy and love you gave her.
“We especially thank Ben for loving her so much – for making a life and home with her.”
Denise revealed that Emily was actually born in Bowen, meaning she was a North Queensland girl from the start.
“Her life turned a full circle,” she said.
An emotional Ben said “it was love at first sight” when he met Emily for the first time.
“My life changed forever seeing Emily for the first time that day,” he said.
“Thank you for the last six years; thank you for being my hunting partner, my fishing crew and my camping sidekick.
“My little darling, words cannot describe how much I love you
“You are the most kind-hearted, gentle, caring woman.”
Western Cape College teacher Brittany Nolan flew down for the funeral and remembered the good times she had with her colleague.
“Before moving to Weipa from the Sunshine Coast I was told by many that your friends would become your family,” she said.
“Emily was my best friend.”
“She had fierce loyalty. She wasn’t afraid to speak up if someone was being treated unfairly.
Brittany spoke of the wonderful camping trips with Emily and the local crew.
“We always got a detailed itinerary for the camping trips and if you ever went camping with Emily you were never going to be roughing it,” she said with a smile.
