Grandmother’s family battles for justice: ‘This will not be in vain’
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The tragic death of Queensland grandmother Vyleen White has sparked a wave of outrage and calls for justice within the community.
However, her family is determined that she be remembered not for the tragic circumstances of her death but for the vibrant and loving life she led.
On Thursday, 29 February, over 100 mourners gathered to bid farewell to the 70-year-old, who was fatally stabbed in a suspected carjacking outside Redbank Plains Shopping Centre earlier in February.
The incident, allegedly involving a 16-year-old boy now charged with murder, has ignited a fierce debate on youth crime.
Vyleen's daughter, Cindy Micallef, delivered an emotional eulogy, vowing to fight for justice for her mother.
'We want to move forward, and mum’s legacy will live on, and we’re not going to let that go,' she said.
'We’re going to make sure we get justice for mum, and nothing will stop us until that happens.'
The senseless nature of White's death was a common thread in the tributes paid at the service, with friends and family expressing their grief over her life being cut short.
However, Micallef was adamant that her mother's death would not be in vain.
In the wake of the tragedy, the Ipswich community has called for tougher youth justice reforms.
New legislation has been proposed, dubbed Vyleen’s Law, aimed to provide harsher sentences and review bail conditions for serious repeat youth offenders.
'This is a catalyst for change in our lives and our community,' Micallef said.
'This will not be in vain. We are taking this to the next level...we’re going up, and we’re going to get justice for this.'
Following White’s passing, the Queensland government has proposed laws to give victims’ families and media greater access to court hearings involving youths.
This comes after the 16-year-old boy charged with White's murder appeared in a closed court hearing, with a magistrate refusing media access.
Additionally, there's a sense of immediacy to the government's push to outlaw knife sales.
Despite the tragic circumstances, Micallef insisted that her mother be remembered for the legacy of her life.
White was known for her love for her cat, Chloe, her knack for Donald Duck impersonations, and her fondness for watching funny animal videos.
Above all, she was known for her unwavering love for her family and friends and, indeed, anyone who crossed her path.
'There will never be enough words to adequately describe mum,' an emotional Micallef said.
'Unconditional love was always there no matter the circumstance, and with us, there were a lot of circumstances.'
White's passion for prayer was also highlighted, with friends sharing that she likely said a prayer for everyone, regardless of who they were.
'It didn’t matter if you were a neighbour, someone buying a washing machine, or just coming to say hello. No one was left out,' Micallef added.
The service was attended by Opposition Leader David Crisafulli, Leader of the African Community Council Beny Bol, and several police officers.
You may watch 7NEWS’ coverage below:
Credit: 7News Australia / Youtube
As they continue their fight for justice, they also strive to keep alive the memory of a woman whose life was marked by love, laughter, and an unwavering faith in humanity.
Rest in peace, Vyleen White.
However, her family is determined that she be remembered not for the tragic circumstances of her death but for the vibrant and loving life she led.
On Thursday, 29 February, over 100 mourners gathered to bid farewell to the 70-year-old, who was fatally stabbed in a suspected carjacking outside Redbank Plains Shopping Centre earlier in February.
The incident, allegedly involving a 16-year-old boy now charged with murder, has ignited a fierce debate on youth crime.
The community paid tribute to Vyleen White after her unfortunate passing. Credit: David Crisafulli / Facebook
Vyleen's daughter, Cindy Micallef, delivered an emotional eulogy, vowing to fight for justice for her mother.
'We want to move forward, and mum’s legacy will live on, and we’re not going to let that go,' she said.
'We’re going to make sure we get justice for mum, and nothing will stop us until that happens.'
The senseless nature of White's death was a common thread in the tributes paid at the service, with friends and family expressing their grief over her life being cut short.
However, Micallef was adamant that her mother's death would not be in vain.
In the wake of the tragedy, the Ipswich community has called for tougher youth justice reforms.
New legislation has been proposed, dubbed Vyleen’s Law, aimed to provide harsher sentences and review bail conditions for serious repeat youth offenders.
'This is a catalyst for change in our lives and our community,' Micallef said.
'This will not be in vain. We are taking this to the next level...we’re going up, and we’re going to get justice for this.'
Vyleen White’s family will get justice for their mother. Credit: 7NEWS Australia / Youtube
Following White’s passing, the Queensland government has proposed laws to give victims’ families and media greater access to court hearings involving youths.
This comes after the 16-year-old boy charged with White's murder appeared in a closed court hearing, with a magistrate refusing media access.
Additionally, there's a sense of immediacy to the government's push to outlaw knife sales.
Despite the tragic circumstances, Micallef insisted that her mother be remembered for the legacy of her life.
White was known for her love for her cat, Chloe, her knack for Donald Duck impersonations, and her fondness for watching funny animal videos.
Above all, she was known for her unwavering love for her family and friends and, indeed, anyone who crossed her path.
'There will never be enough words to adequately describe mum,' an emotional Micallef said.
'Unconditional love was always there no matter the circumstance, and with us, there were a lot of circumstances.'
White's passion for prayer was also highlighted, with friends sharing that she likely said a prayer for everyone, regardless of who they were.
'It didn’t matter if you were a neighbour, someone buying a washing machine, or just coming to say hello. No one was left out,' Micallef added.
The service was attended by Opposition Leader David Crisafulli, Leader of the African Community Council Beny Bol, and several police officers.
You may watch 7NEWS’ coverage below:
Credit: 7News Australia / Youtube
Rest in peace, Vyleen White.
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