An 18-year-old teenager, Jack Thatcher, has died after sustaining critical injuries during a hiking incident at Mount Beerwah in the Glass House Mountains on Sunday afternoon, March 15. He was airlifted to Sunshine Coast University Hospital in a critical condition, where he later passed away.
It is believed Jack fell while attempting to save his girlfriend, 18-year-old Lorielle Russell. Lorielle tragically died at the scene after falling between 50 and 100 metres. The young couple have since been remembered by loved ones as adventurous spirits who shared a passion for the outdoors.
Lorielle’s aunt, Sally W, paid tribute to her niece, describing her as “beautiful” and full of life. She shared that her 17-year-old daughter, Kiana, had a particularly close bond with Lorielle and her twin sister, Arabella. The three girls were inseparable, forming a connection that felt like sisterhood.
“My baby girl loved becoming a triplet when they were all together,” she said. “The love and beauty within their mum shines through both of those girls.”
She also spoke about the deep grief felt by the family, noting how heavily the loss weighs on everyone who knew Lorielle. “The pain during this time is overwhelming,” she said. “You can see the happiness and beauty reflected in their mum, Arabella, and now in our angel Lorielle.”
Meanwhile, a fundraiser has been established to support Jack’s family. Organizer Ryan Orbell also described Jack as an adventurous and vibrant young man who loved spending time outdoors.
“We are seeking community support to help Jack Thatcher’s family after this tragic incident,” he wrote. “Jack was critically injured while simply enjoying the outdoors with his friends.”
Thoughts remain with both families and their friends during this incredibly difficult time.
