Community Mourns Loss of Vibrant 18-Year-Old Lily Hooper After NSW Hiking Tragedy

Tributes have poured in for 18-year-old Lily Hooper, celebrated as a spirited adventurer, skilled martial artist, and cherished community member, following the discovery of her body eight days after she vanished during a hike in New South Wales’ southern highlands.

Hooper was deeply involved in local activities in the Wollondilly region, excelling in martial arts and working as a guide at Sydney BridgeClimb, where her enthusiasm and warmth left a lasting impression on colleagues.

In Oakdale, her hometown, residents held a vigil at Willis Park on Friday evening, with the site quickly transformed into a heartfelt tribute by Saturday morning, adorned with flowers, fairy lights, and electric candles.

The Wollondilly Performing Arts Centre and shire library were bathed in purple light to honor her memory, as Mayor Matt Gould described the community’s profound grief, stating, “We’ve never been so deeply affected.”

“From 5pm this afternoon and across the weekend, Willis Park at Oakdale will become a place for our community to come together and remember Lily Hooper,” Gould said, noting Red Cross support for those in need.

“It’s an opportunity for everyone to unite, show solidarity for the family, and care for one another,” he added.

Flags across the region, including at the Oakdale Rural Fire Service, were lowered to half-mast, with the brigade expressing “deep sorrow” for the “shining light” who impacted many lives.

‘A Talented and Tough Martial Artist’

Hooper trained at Toodokan Self Defence Academy, which canceled classes on Thursday afternoon in her honor. The academy celebrated her as a “beautiful soul, taken far too soon.”

Her martial arts instructor, Mark Szalajko, shared memories of her talent and kindness, stating, “She was a talented and tough fighter, but despite her strength, Lily was incredibly kind. She was someone everyone admired and will deeply miss.”

The Oaks Netball Club and Burragorang District Soccer Club also paid tribute, with members wearing black armbands and social media posts expressing heartfelt condolences.

Campbelltown Performing Arts High School, where Hooper graduated in 2025, honored her as a “kind, humorous, and respectful young woman who brightened every room with her smile and determination.”

One commenter shared, “I feel incredibly privileged to have known her and shared so many memories. Her loyalty to her friends was unforgettable.”

Sydney BridgeClimb praised her as “an absolute delight,” highlighting her compassion and positive influence on the team.

Police initially reported Hooper was alive, sharing hopeful footage that later turned to heartbreak when her body was found miles from her car. Commissioner Mal Lanyon acknowledged the “devastating miscommunication” caused by initial optimism.

Assistant Commissioner Joseph Cassar noted the search challenges in dense terrain, while Hooper’s family received support through a Wollondilly Rotary Club fundraiser, emphasizing her lasting impact on the community.

Source link