A community in Queensland has come together in sorrow, gathering for a poignant candlelight vigil to commemorate 17-year-old Pheobe Bishop, who was allegedly murdered by her housemates. The vigil took place in Gin Gin, close to Pheobe’s home, where family and hundreds of locals paid their respects to the spirited young woman.
Authorities confirmed that human remains found along a remote road near the Good Night Scrub National Park belong to Pheobe, although further tests are still being conducted. Her mother, Kylie Johnson, and sister, Kaylea Bishop, along with many others, remembered Pheobe as fiercely loyal and deeply loving. Kylie reflected on her daughter’s unique personality, saying, “Pheobe always sung her own tune,” and highlighted the profound love she had for those dear to her.
Kaylea expressed her anguish over the loss, referring to the brevity of Pheobe’s life with the heart-wrenching sentiment that “17 years was never enough.” She added, “In the short 17 years that she was with us, God, she gave us a run for our bloody money.” The vigils were filled with heartfelt tributes and colourful butterfly motifs, symbolising Pheobe’s free spirit. Kylie shared lighthearted stories about her daughter’s strong opinions, bringing moments of laughter amid the grief.
A second vigil is set to occur in Bundaberg, while flowers and letters continue to accumulate where Pheobe was last seen near Bundaberg Airport. Messages on the tributes include “Forever 17,” reflecting the love and sorrow felt by the community.
Pheobe’s housemates, James Wood, 34, and Tanika Bromley, 33, have been charged with murder and interfering with a corpse following their arrest in Bundaberg. Pheobe had gone missing on May 15, when she did not check in for her flight to Western Australia. Investigations remain active, with police focusing on three crime scenes, including Pheobe’s home and her housemate’s vehicle. Authorities are appealing to the public for information regarding Pheobe and the movements of her housemate’s grey Hyundai in the days leading up to her disappearance.
This tragic incident has not only shaken the local community but also reinforced the importance of love, support, and vigilance in the face of such heartbreak.