Toyah remembered by friends and family on 25th birthday

WANGETTI MURDER

Victoria Stone-Meadows
Queensland Police has renewed appeals for information regarding Toyah Cordingley’s death on what would have been her 25th birthday.
A dedicated team of detectives, dubbed Operation Quebec Clarify, is still working around the clock to find the people responsible for her murder.
However, police have provided no updates on the investigation’s progress.
The death of the Wangetti woman in October last year sent shock waves through communities across Far North Queensland and beyond.
In a statement released today, Police commended Ms Cordingley’s family for their strength and resilience throughout the investigation.
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Troy Cordingley, Ms Cordingley’s father, said getting through her birthday will be difficult but he has faith in Police to bring those responsible to justice.
“Police have stayed in constant contact keeping me up to date and I am happy and remaining patient with what is occurring,” he said.
“The first birthday without Toyah will be incredibly difficult but the community support has been incredible and greatly appreciated.”
Toyah’s mother, Vanessa Gardiner, also said the support and care from the community has been a blessing.
“I would like to thank the community and the police for their support. We will never give up,” she said.
In a Facebook post to the ‘Honour Toyah’ Facebook group, Ms Gardiner shared memories of her daughter on her birthday.
“Happy Birthday to our beautiful daughter Toyah,” the post reads.
“Today you would have turned 25. I remember the day I gave birth to you. So tiny and holding your little hand so warm.
“The last time I held your hand it was so cold. I will always be so proud of you. Today we will celebrate with the usual chocolate vegan cake I made you every year.
“I miss you so much but I know the fairies are taking good care of you.”
Mr Cordingley also shared photos and memories of his daughter to the online community.
“Happy 25th Birthday to my beautiful Brighteyes. I feel you with me. Love forever, Daddio,” his post reads.
Since her death eight months ago, a national campaign including bumper stickers, banners, and signage was launched to encourage people to come forward with any information.
Thousands of ‘TOYAH’ bumper stickers have been printed and spread around Australia along with hand-painted travelling stones created in her memory.
Travelcades, memorials, and fundraisers have been a feature of Far Northern communities in recent months to keep Ms Cordingley’s memory alive and give support to her friends and family.
To date, police have taken more than 400 statements and have followed up over 2800 lines of inquiry in investigating Ms Cordingley’s murder.
Police continue to appeal for anyone with information regarding Toyah’s death, who may have until now been unwilling to speak, to come forward and help provide closure to her family.
